While often pitted against each other, the two primary GOAT candidates do share some mutual admiration. The LeBron James museum did offer a unique perspective into the life of the young Kid from Akron. During that tour, a recreation of James’ first apartment was an instant highlight. A special photo came to light when taking the Lakers roster on a tour of the place during their road trip to Cleveland. Despite the constant coverage of the two superstars and the magnitude of LeBron and Michael Jordan, it has somehow remained hidden in the annals of history.
However, with the new museum, a new piece of history just became public for the entire world.
The LeBron James – Michael Jordan scrimmage
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Before the 2003 season officially got underway, there were rumors of a memorable scrimmage match. Prior to the Cleveland Cavaliers rookie taking center stage on an NBA court, and MJ officially retiring for the final time, the two legends would apparently partake in an open-court battle.
While the battle remains legendary, no information about it has ever gone public. For much of history, the only proof of existence about it was a gym photo of the two legends sharing a court together. Similarly, the recreation of the King’s childhood home includes a photo of the two legends.
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It’s a picture common throughout NBA history on the bench. Two players sitting shoulder-to-shoulder. That is the exact picture that the 2 primary GOAT candidates were painting on a desk in a frame. Whether it’s from the same open-court game remains to be seen.
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However, it wasn’t the only unique insight into the childhood of LeBron James. Instead, the entire trip, especially the recreation of his room, serves as an ode to his heroes growing up in the basketball world. Perhaps poetically, the same names would also define his career in the sport.
A trip through LeBron James’ childhood, and career
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On the walls of his bedroom were a handful of NBA legends. Among them were names like Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Hakeem Olajuwon, and, of course, Michael Jordan. Over the course of the next 2 decades, these names would come to define the Los Angeles Lakers superstar’s career.
While the comparisons to Magic were immediate due to similar build and elite court vision, the others soon joined the party. As the greatest small forward ever, the battle against Larry Bird was a long one. However, what helped him achieve that milestone was training sessions with Hakeem Olajuwon.
While Gilbert Arenas may not believe in their validity, they did turn LeBron’s entire trajectory around. The Kobe Bryant conversation is obvious. While their Finals matchup is one of history’s greatest What-Ifs, the two are the last 2 superstars for the historic Lakers franchise.
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That leaves Michael Jordan. And, there isn’t much left to say about that particular discussion, is there?
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