Stephen A. Smith reveals an extraordinary incident that occurred during the 2005 All-Star Game in Denver when he found himself in an unexpected situation. As Smith was strolling down the street, a large black car suddenly pulled up next to him. Fearful and uncertain about his fate, he is brought back and a window rolls down to reveal Charles Oakley.
Smith recounted how he attended the NBA All-Star Weekend in Denver and his career led him to declare that LeBron James might be the best 20-year-old player he has ever seen because of James’ size and skill set.
As he was on the road, an intimidating black car pulled up next to him and slowed down. As the window rolled down, Oakley’s smiling face appeared, followed by the surprising appearance of Michael Jordan. Jordan, who was criticized for Smith’s comments about LeBron James, made his displeasure clear in no uncertain terms.
“‘You never say something like that again. You never do that. Steph A. six rings, Steph A. can he get one ring?” Michael Jordan said.
His decision to take his six championships against a young LeBron James shows how competitive he is and how determined he is to have his legacy respected. It’s certainly interesting to observe Jordan’s sensitivity to comparisons to the greatest 20-year-old player in NBA history, especially considering LeBron had only played two seasons with the Cavaliers at the time.
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When Michael Jordan refused to let LeBron James play pickup games
LeBron James, of Akron, Ohio, has idolized Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan since his formative years as a promising basketball player. For the young player, the opportunity to play catch-up with Jordan alongside other NBA pros is an unparalleled opportunity.
However, Jordan dispelled LeBron’s concerns about injury with the enhanced physique and strength of NBA professional players.
Excited by the news of witnessing Jordan playing, LeBron prepared his basketball gear in hopes of engaging in a spontaneous game with other professional NBA players. But Jordan was worried about unnecessary risks and refused to participate.
LeBron was eager to participate, but Jordan decided to back his safety. As a high school junior, the opportunity to compete against Jordan might have been memorable, but Jordan didn’t want LeBron to risk injury competing against NBA pros.
Although LeBron is only 16 years old, his ability and physical fitness make people doubt whether he has a chance to compete with Jordan. Despite this, Jordan saw great potential in the young star and chose to protect LeBron’s path to success without hindrance.
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