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Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James drained the game-winner against Team Durant in the 2022 NBA All-Star Game on Sunday, and unknown to many, his jumper was actually inspired by Michael Jordan.
🗣 CLEVELAND! THIS IS FOR YOU!
LeBron James drills the game winner 🚨pic.twitter.com/xWE70Wrw2W
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 21, 2022
James revealed as much in his postgame interview as he reflected on Jordan's impact on his career and professional basketball life. Everyone knows that the Lakers forward was a huge Jordan fan growing up, but it is incredible to see him speak so highly of the NBA icon.
The Lakers leader also shared his interaction with Jordan and how he didn't want to waste the chance to shake the hands of the Bulls legend, who was a hero to him and countless other NBA stars:
“Part of me wouldn't be here without MJ's inspiration. Always wanted to be like him growing up. It's crazy that the game-winning shot tonight was a fadeaway, and it was inspired by MJ,” LeBron said.
While LeBron James has often been pitted against Michael Jordan in the GOAT debate, it is clear that the Lakers All-Star has nothing but respect for his childhood hero. Of course he wants to surpass the consensus NBA GOAT, but that doesn't mean he disrespects him or anything like that. In contrast, it shows how much he admires him and how determined he is to leave a legacy that is as long-lasting as Jordan's.
Indeed, LeBron's fadeaway game-winner couldn't be any more fitting on a night when the NBA also honored the 75 greatest players in league history. James finally joined his idol on the elite list, and he put the icing on the cake in the best way possible:
LeBron James said his game-winning fadeaway was inspired by Michael Jordan and he talked about what he’s meant to his career. pic.twitter.com/89Vn5XTrGh
— Melissa Rohlin (@melissarohlin) February 21, 2022
What a special night.
