LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers has just added another feather to his cap. The latest addition to his ever-growing list of accolades is being named as ESPN‘s second most influential player in the history of the league.
Despite coming in as the first-runner up, this is still quite an accomplishment for the 33-year-old, as he has once again been cast in the same light as other greats that have come before him.
In fact, what makes this feat even more impressive for LeBron is that he is only one of two active NBA players on the top 10; the other being Golden State Warriors three-time champion Stephen Curry.
According to ESPN's list, the significance of James' impact on the association can be attributed to how special he is as a player. His career numbers are testament to the fact that LeBron is one of those once-in-a-generation type of athletes.
Article Continues Below“The list of James' accomplishments since entering the league are well known, but he's continuing to write his story and refine his legacy. In what portends to be a significant achievement, sometime next year James should become the first player in history to be in the top 10 all time in both points and assists. That's a distinction that will carry a great honor for him as he has always wanted to be known as a playmaker and not just as a scorer. He has a chance to move into the top 50 all time in total rebounds next season as well. In the playoffs, he's already the all-time leader in scoring, second in steals and third in assists.”
Moreover, James has not been afraid to stay within the confines of the basketball world and has used his position to speak out against oppression and injustice.
“He was far from the first high-profile athlete to speak out politically, but James' willingness to put his voice behind social causes has encouraged numerous athletes to follow. In 2012, when James and Dwyane Wade organized their Miami Heat teammates to pose for a team photo in hoodies following the death of Trayvon Martin, it changed the way NBA players used social media.”
For those interested, the great Michael Jordan sits atop ESPN's list. Then again, James still has a few years left in his career as well as a lifetime ahead of him once he retires. It would not be surprising if LeBron ends up overtaking Michael once it is all said and done.