James switched to No.6 during his four years with the Miami Heat…
NBA legend Michael Jordan has revealed that he is “cool” with LeBron James’ decision to return to wearing the No.23 jersey with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Jordan, who now owns the Charlotte Hornets, wore No.23 during his legendary career and as a result with James idolising him growing up, he opted to wear the same number in his first seven seasons with the Cavs.
However, after leaving for the Miami Heat in 2010, James decided to switch to the No.6 jersey stating that it was a tribute to Jordan in that no other player should wear his number moving forward.
“I just think what Michael Jordan has done for the game has to be recognized some way soon,” James, who had worn No. 23 since his sophomore year in high school, said at the time, ESPN reports.
“There would be no LeBron James, no Kobe Bryant, no Dwyane Wade if there wasn’t Michael Jordan first.
“He can’t get the logo, and if he can’t, something has to be done. I feel like no NBA player should wear 23. I’m starting a petition, and I’ve got to get everyone in the NBA to sign it. Now, if I’m not going to wear No. 23, then nobody else should be able to wear it.”
It is understood that James did not contact Jordan ahead of making his announcement on Twitter and Instagram that he would return to wearing the No.23 jersey having opted out of his contract with the Heat and returning home to help deliver the franchise a championship.
However, it appears as though there is no ill-feeling over the decision as Jordan conceded that he “doesn’t own a number” in a text message to ESPN on Monday morning, thus leaving James free to make his decision despite a backlash from sections of fans.
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