LeBron’s NBA All-Star game-winning shot inspired by MJ
As the NBA celebrated the members of its 75th Anniversary Team, LeBron James spoke on the inspiration given him by fellow basketball great Michael Jordan.
One of the highlights of the NBA All-Star weekend was the league’s tribute to the members of its 75th Anniversary team, where 75 of the best basketball players gathered at center court of the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio.
Voted as one of the team captains of the All-Star Game, LeBron James made sure he got to shake the hand of Chicago Bulls superstar Michael Jordan during the ceremony. He spoke about the encounter after Team LeBron prevailed over Team Durant, 163-160.
MJ's moves: an inspiration
The 18-time All-Star said in a post-game interview that the shot he made that won the game was influenced by the 59-year-old basketball icon.
“It’s crazy that the game-winning shot tonight was a fadeaway, and it was inspired by MJ,” James said of his jumper over Zach LaVine.
Rare moment on or off-court
LeBron spoke highly of His Airness, whom he had not had many chances to interact with over the years he has been in professional basketball.
King James said that he couldn’t miss the chance to greet the man who has inspired him and numerous other NBA superstars. The Lakers forward acknowledged the impact of the NBA great on his playing career.
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“I did not want to lose the opportunity to shake the man’s hand that inspired me throughout my childhood.
“I haven’t had much dialogue with him my 19 years in this business, but part of me wouldn’t be here without MJ’s inspiration. I always wanted to be like him growing up.”
The issue of the GOAT
The 37-year-old has often been compared to Jordan when there is talk of who deserves to be called the greatest NBA player of all time.
The 4-time NBA Most Valuable Player finished last Sunday’s game with 24 points, eight assists, six rebounds, and three steals. It was the fifth consecutive win for his Team LeBron in the annual NBA All-Star Game.