After announcing he was not retiring during an appearance on the ESPYs recently, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James wasn’t done trying to soak up the spotlight for a little while longer during the NBA offseason, as another announcement soon followed.
Reportedly, as a nod to NBA icon and Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell, who passed away almost a year ago, James will be changing his jersey back to No. 23 from No. 6.
As usual, it tends to make headlines whenever James does something, especially in the offseason, with everyone giving their two cents about what the four-time NBA champion has decided to do.
The one pundit that loves criticizing James for every move he makes is Skip Bayless of Fox Sports, and of course, he gave his take on James switching jersey numbers yet again.
I believe LeBron will change back to No. 23 for 2 reasons: 1) to honor Bill Russell and 2) to resend the absurd message he’s now, as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, the GOAT, better than Jordan. Only fools believe that. LeBron James wearing 23 is a disgrace.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) July 16, 2023
One thing is for sure, whenever James does something and goes out of his way to make it public, it is for a reason.
Even though he claims it’s for Russell, who he didn’t even acknowledge the passing of last year on social media, Bayless may be on to something in terms of there being another motive.
It could have something to do with Michael Jordan as Bayless suggests, or it may be as simple as wanting to finish his career in the same number in which it began.
Another motive might be wanting to have his jersey flying off the shelves again, as it will undoubtedly be a top seller.
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