LeBron James was undoubtedly one of the millions of youngsters who grew up idolizing NBA legend Michael Jordan. And now, he’s paying homage to the memory that made him who he is today.
James has filed paperwork with the NBA to have his number switched from No. 23 to No. 6 beginning in the 2010-2011 season. LBJ has gone on record saying that he would give up his number 23 in an effort to promote the retirement of Jordan’s old number by the NBA.
Starting next season, LeBron will have the hangtime and jersey number of Dr. J.
Although James is giving up his customary #23 that he has sported since his days at St. Vincent-St. Mary’s, the superstar has had some connection with #6. In the Olympics, LeBron wore the number. He also wears the number in practice every day.
What’s interesting about this is that James is a good enough player – and many believe he may approach Jordan’s status by the close of his career – that the Association probably wouldn’t have forced his hand (in giving up the number). But now that the best player wearing No. 23 – and probably the best player in the game, period – has given up the number, the floodgates could be opened for this recognition of MJ to take place.
MJ’s attitude withstanding, this recognition is indeed long overdue.
Hats off to LeBron for providing another highlight-worthy assist.
T Lamont is an administator and author covering all sports for Ball or Nuthin'. Send T Lamont a question or comment for future discussion (tlamont@ballornuthin.com). 
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Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Dr J with the Sixers all wore number 6, so I'm not too sure how much of 'another highlight-worthy assist' this is for a student of the game. But, he may just like his Olympic number and I'm just reading into it too much.
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TLamont Reply:
March 5th, 2010 at 1:35 am
Good point Eric. But as you mentioned those are three great players that wore number 6…so which one of them would get to have it retired in his name?
With Jordan clearly being the best #23 (and NBA player period) in history, there's absolutely no room for argument as far as that goes.
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