Watching the Cavaliers vs. Heat game last night, the camera zoomed into the legendary Michael Jordan, who was in attendance and sitting next to Miami team president, Pat Riley. Even MJ couldn’t resist watching two of the games top players going at it – LeBron James and Dwayne Wade.
The game was intense and the Cavaliers pulled out the victory, but that wasn’t the most interesting part of the night. Heck, even DWade’s monstrous, disgusting, sick, all of the above dunk on Andy Verajao (OUCH) wasn’t it either. It was LeBron’s comments at the end of the game that caught my attention (video link):
I respect LBJ for stepping up and showing Michael Jordan the respect that he rightfully deserves. I also respect the maturity that it takes to consider giving up the number you’ve worn since your sophomore year in high school. But I question whether he’s giving up the number 23 for the right reasons. Why?
- Because though we relate the number 23 to MJ, I can relate it to LBJ as well
- Because the number 23 gives kids/players inspiration to do something amazing, to achieve greatness every time they wear that number
- Because one number’s inspiration doesn’t have to be limited to one person
Jerry Rice wore the number 80. I will always equate the greatest receiver of all time to that number. I think of him when I see other WRs wearing that number. But I also know that those players willing to suit up with 80 on their back are going onto the field knowing that they represent a number that achieved greatness – and will aspire to do the same.
As much as Michael Jordan achieved wearing the number 23, I think LeBron James (without getting into the comparison debate) in his own respect, can do the same.
But enough of what I think – do you think LeBron James is doing the right thing? Do you think he has to do it in respect of Jordan? Let me know what’s on your mind.
