LeBron James Stresses Personal Journey When Asked to Compare Influence With Michael Jordan
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Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James said he does not measure his influence against that of Michael Jordan, emphasizing that his focus remains on his own accomplishments and happiness.
Speaking with Sean Gregory of Time Magazine, the four-time NBA champion laughed when invited to claim he is more influential than the Chicago Bulls legend. “You ask somebody that grew up in the Jordan era, they’re gonna say Jordan,” James said. “You ask somebody who grew up in the LeBron era—they’re still gonna say Jordan. Listen, to each his own.”
James added that he has never tried to “step my feet in another man’s shoes” to surpass anyone. “My journey is my journey,” he continued. “From a basketball standpoint, an inspiring standpoint, an influential standpoint, I know I can walk in any room.”
The 39-year-old, who just completed his 21st NBA season, reiterated that his career goals revolve around giving the game everything he has while pursuing personal fulfillment, rather than eclipsing Jordan’s legacy.
Free-agency Decision Looms
James holds an unrestricted free-agent option this summer. Hall of Famer Charles Barkley recently said there is “one clear choice” for where James should play if he returns for a 22nd season, though Barkley did not elaborate publicly on that preference.
James has not indicated a timetable for announcing whether he will exercise his player option or test the market.
Source: Lakers Nation
