LeBron James Will Switch Jersey Back to No. 23

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James will switch back to wearing No. 23 for the upcoming NBA season. The move from 6, which he had previously worn for the Miami Heat, comes as a tribute to the late-great Bill Russell, who passed away roughly a year ago.

Shortly after his passing, the NBA retired the No.6 jersey leaguewide, the first time such a move had been made. Those who were currently wearing the number, however, were allowed to keep it if they chose so. “For us to lose such an icon, it was heartbreaking for all of us,” James previously told ESPN. “I mean, no matter if you play the game, watch the game or a part of the game. We all know what Bill Russell meant to the NBA, obviously to the Celtics off the floor as well, as far as his heroism … and what he meant to Black people, being able to speak about issues that are not comfortable.”

Michael Jordan is usually first thought when entering the “all-time” conversation. But in terms of championships alone, Russell had eclipsed Jordan’s NBA championship tally by almost double, having amassed 11 rings, five MVP trophies, 12 All-Star selections, as well as becoming the first Black head coach in league history.

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