It was a long time coming but it finally happened. Chauncey Billups is finally in the Hall of Fame and as the congratulatory messages poured in, one message stood out. It was from none other than LeBron James. The Blazers HC was inducted into the HOF for his storied career and LeBron couldn’t be happier to see the journeyman of the NBA getting his recognition.

Amid all the lights on the Hall of Fame night at Springfield, Massachusetts, on Sunday Billups made sure to retell his journey to the achievement. Celebrating it among the glorious names of the game, LeBron paid his homage to the former NBA champion. “CONGRATULATIONS BIG SHOT!!!!!!!!” the Lakers star wrote on X along with a salute and a series of clapping emojis to pay respect to his close friend.

His successful 17-year NBA career as a player was rewarded with the prestigious ring and jacket that were presented by his daughters Cenaiya and Ciara. Before taking the center stage, Billups told Denver Gazette, “I’m not the most emotional dude in the world, but this is an emotional – obviously – event.” Setting aside Billups’ critical remarks of him, LeBron tried to be a part of his big night.

Chauncey Billups declined to put LeBron James on top of his list

After 2016, LeBron James made a strong statement following the championship win with the Cleveland Cavaliers. During an episode of More Than an Athlete, the superstar claimed that the title made him the greatest player. However, Billups had a difference of opinion.

“I love that he’s done that,” the then-ESPN analyst said regarding LeBron’s claim. “He’s on the Mount Rushmore, in my opinion, but I can’t put him at the top. That’s fair enough. There’s no way I can put him at the top.” Billups would have agreed with LeBron “if he would hit that shot that Kyrie hit.”

Winning against the Warriors in the Final series was certainly a tall task for the Cavs. Considering Steph Curry’s side has established supremacy in the league games with their 73-9 record that regular season, they were way too strong for the Eastern team.

Following the 3-1 series deficit, the Cavs bounced back with their exceptional performance and settled the scores in the 6th game. The shot that Billups mentioned was a remarkable 3-point that Kyrie hit in Game 7 to give his side the lead crushing the Warriors’ title repeat dreams. Had the shot come from LeBron, Billups would have perhaps written his name on the top of his list. Nevertheless, it does not take away anything from LeBron James’ glittery NBA career and like Billups, he too would certainly take up the Hall of Fame stage after he calls it quits.