Last season, the NBA agreed to globally retire the jersey number of Boston Celtics Hall of Fame big man Bill Russell to honor his life after his passing. Among the many to wear his No. 6 in today’s league is Los Angeles Laker legend LeBron James, who has recently decided on the number he will don next season in its stead.
Per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, James has decided to switch back to his iconic No. 23, which he wore for the majority of his career. “It’s LeBron’s decision,” Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group related to McMenamin. “He chose to out of respect for Bill Russell.”
The Celtics – Lakers rivalry is known for its intense competition and historical significance, but — with a few exceptions — has also been marked by mutual respect between players over the decades.
Quite the compliment given that for many Russell was the greatest player to play the sport. https://t.co/RsCXVaML5v
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) July 15, 2023
LeBron, an all-time great in his own right, has shared his respect for Russell over the years and was among the loudest voices in favor of retiring Russell’s No. 6 across the league.
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