Lebron James speaks onstage during Fanatics Fest NYC and Michael Jordan in the corner. © Andy Lyons/ Slaven Vlasic/Getty ImagesLebron James speaks onstage during Fanatics Fest NYC and Michael Jordan in the corner.

LeBron James has cemented his legacy in NBA history, standing tall amidst the formidable talents of Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry. Moreover, he has carved out his niche and entered the GOAT debate. During Mind the Game podcast, the veteran forward admitted that Michael Jordan inspired him during his formative years. However, despite his admiration, James would not pick Jordan as his dream teammate. Surprisingly, he cited a reason that intrigued fans and analysts alike.

“I think our games would’ve complemented as well. MJ (Michael Jordan) was a flat-out scorer… He had a scorer’s mentality. If I had to pick him, but I know I can’t him because I know how social media works… You m******r are gonna be like, ‘Oh, you want to play with Michael Jordan, too? You played with everybody else,” LeBron said in Mind The Game podcast. Then he jokingly added “I can see the headline already, ‘LeBron wants to play with Michael Jordan.”

Although LeBron James has expressed admiration for the Bulls legend, his relationship with Michael Jordan is not what many might expect. During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show in March 2025, LeBron revealed that they don’t speak often, and offered a compelling reason. “I think it’s ’cause I’m still playing, you know? And MJ’s, we all know MJ, even if you don’t know him personally, he’s one of the most ruthless competitors there is.”

Los Angeles Lakers veteran LeBron James also expressed admiration for players like Scottie Pippen, Penny Hardaway, and Grant Hill, citing them as major inspirations throughout his illustrious career. Despite frequently being a central figure in the GOAT debate, James emphasizes the significant influence these iconic legends have had on his game.

LeBron James drives to the basket against Minnesota's Julius Randle in the NBA playoffs

LeBron James drives to the basket against Minnesota’s Julius Randle in the NBA playoffs

For countless fans, LeBron James’ remarkable longevity has firmly established him at the pinnacle of NBA history. At 40, he remains not just a player but one of the league’s elite, ranking sixth in the MVP overall and outperforming rising stars like Anthony Edwards and Cade Cunningham. His career showcases an array of broken records, most notably his achievement as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.

LeBron James, according to Spotrac, has the opportunity to extend his tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers by exercising his player option for an additional year. He must make his decision by June 29, 2025. Nevertheless, Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka has publicly expressed his desire to retain the veteran superstar for the 2025-26 season.

By opting for this extension, LeBron could not only aim to secure his fifth NBA championship—a bid to surpass Stephen Curry’s four titles—but also seek more time on the court with his son, Bronny James. Their potential partnership could craft unforgettable moments in basketball history.