Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James reminisced on an interview held back in 2002 when he was still a high school prodigy who was about to enter the league in the following year. The interview in question had to deal with comparisons to Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.

Eighteen years later, James expressed his appreciation for the pioneers who paved the path for him and other younger players who wanted to play and make a mark in the world's most competitive basketball stage, via Twitter.

Being compared to NBA icons in Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Julius Erving, among other legends can be quite overwhelming for most teenagers. However, playing as a highly-touted prospect at a young age, LeBron James still managed to surmount expectations, especially at the amateur level at the time.

He went on to garner multiple awards, snag huge endorsement deals, and land on magazine covers. LeBron James eventually skipped playing in the collegiate ranks and took his talents straight to the NBA.

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Lakers News
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James warms up before the start of a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center.
LeBron James calls out media who can’t sell NBA FinalsZachary Draves ·
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) leave a court after defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 94-85 in game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena.
How LeBron James’ $52.6 million decision will shape Lakers title chances with Luka DoncicAnthony Irwin ·
Los Angeles Lakers center Alex Len (27) defends against Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez (11) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena.
Lakers rumors: Will LA pursue center they’ve ‘long been fans of’ in free agency?Julian Ojeda ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates after a play against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter in game six of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena. The Los Angeles Lakers won 106-93 to win the series.
LeBron James drops mic on Lakers’ bubble championship hatersJulian Ojeda ·
Kevon Looney, Al Horford, Steven Adams, and Clint Capela on the Lakers court.
Sources: Lakers’ likeliest strategy to fixing center problemAnthony Irwin ·
Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) makes a block attempt against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) during the first half at Delta Center.
NBA rumors: Lakers insider reveals why trade for Jazz star is unlikelyScotty White ¡

Greater pressure was set around him when he was already selected as the top overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft by his hometown Cleveland Cavaliers. He landed on a struggling franchise and eventually emerged as the team's main man in his first few seasons in the league.

He stuck around for a while until he felt the need to seek greener pastures in order to take his career to the next level. James went to the Miami Heat and knew how to win a couple of titles before eventually coming back to his hometown. He eventually on his promise to bring a championship to Cleveland after a historic 3-1 comeback against the 73-9 Golden State Warriors.

Now heading to his 18th season in the league, the 35-year-old has already accomplished a bevy of individual and team success including 16 All-Star appearances, four NBA MVP honors, four championship titles, and four NBA Finals MVP awards.

Looking back, LeBron James has come a long way and might have even surpassed the legends that came before him. He has already cemented his status as arguably one of the greatest players to have ever played the sport throughout the years. After recently inking a fresh two-year extension with the Lakers, it is safe to say that James isn't done anytime soon and basketball fans will keep on witnessing his greatness for the years to come.