LeBron James Talks About Relationship With Michael Jordan

James, who wears No. 23 in honor of Jordan, discussed his relationship with both Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant.

Lakers forward LeBron James takes a pass during a game against the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 3, 2025, in Los Angeles. Mark J. Terrill/AP Photo

When it comes to the face of the NBA, there’s a baton that’s clearly been passed over the last 35 years. It has gone from Michael Jordan to Kobe Bryant to LeBron James, with many fans and basketball experts placing those three on their Mount Rushmore of the NBA.

Any time there is discussion about the relationships among the three, many people take notice. On Wednesday on the “Pat McAfee Show,” James was asked about his relationship with Jordan—whom James infamously donned the No. 23 jersey in honor of, starting with his high school days and continuing today with the Lakers.