Speaking on stage beside Steve Nash, LeBron James was asked which player from a previous era he would have liked to team up with before being drafted.

He didn’t hesitate to name Michael Jordan, crediting the six-time champion for being “the most inspiring” figure in his development. James described how their playing styles could have complemented each other, with Jordan’s relentless scoring mentality making him the definitive alpha scorer of his day.

Even as LeBron jokingly acknowledged social media’s tendency to scrutinize every comment linking him with Jordan, he made clear MJ’s competitive mystique was unmatched in motivating him to greatness. 

The Unsung Trio: Hardaway, Hill, Pippen

Not content to leave his pantheon at just Jordan, LeBron also heaped praise on Penny Hardaway, Grant Hill, and Scottie Pippen.

Penny Hardaway was remembered as the dynamic point forward whose peak with the Orlando Magic set new standards for big guards. Grant Hill’s all-around brilliance and resilience through injuries inspired admiration, as did his seven All-Star selections and reputation for professionalism.

Scottie Pippen, long considered Jordan’s indispensable sidekick, earned LeBron’s respect for his defensive mastery and clutch performances. Pippen’s ability to elevate the Bulls while often working in Jordan’s shadow made his impact stand out for the Lakers star. 

Legacy and Inspiration: Fuel for Success

While LeBron’s résumé is set to eclipse many of those he once idolized, he was quick to emphasize that every champion starts out looking up to greatness.

The legendary quartet of Jordan, Hardaway, Hill, and Pippen provided the blueprint for LeBron’s own relentless pursuit of success. This candid reveal highlights how even era-defining talents draw from the past, and continue the cycle of inspiration for the next generation of NBA hopefuls.