Lakers power forward LeBron James (Photo: Getty)
Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Draymond Green, Ron Artest, Marcus Camby, and Anthony Davis all headline as just a few impressive names forming a fraternity of players who’ve proudly worn basketball’s most iconic number, #23, during their NBA careers. Stemming from Jordan’s transcendent years hooping with #23 stitched below his last name, the number continues to inspire today’s stars, most notably James, who famously chose to wear #23 once joining the NBA as an attempt to mirror Jordan, who James idolized during his basketball upbringings. Players besides James such as Kobe Bryant illustrated the number’s importance as well after he paid tribute to Jordan’s digits, eventually choosing to wear #24 in an attempt to proclaim himself the as “next” Jordan.
Now with a trade agreement from the Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans allying two Jordan mimics as teammates, a decision forcing one player to relinquish the famous number needed to be made. Making that decision was James, as sources recently confirmed the King plans to gift his old number to Davis, allowing the new Lakers big man to retain the number he initially wore during his career’s first seven years.
Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter!
A week of sports news in your in-box.
We find the sports news you need to know, so you don't have to.
While wearing number six, James averaged 26.9 points per game, and also won two MVPs and two NBA titles. With 23 on his jersey, James also acquired two MVPs, brought home the monumental Cleveland title, and achieved a slightly superior scoring average with 27.2 points per game.
With less iconic players to recently wear number six for the Lakers such as Jordan Clarkson and Lance Stephenson, far less intimidating shoes to fill in lie before James. On the contrary, as Davis’s teammate, he leaves a tough act for the new Laker to follow, as despite missing the playoffs James averaged an impressive 27.4 points, 8.3 assists, and 8.5 rebounds per game.
Japan earned a valuable draw against the Netherlands in the FIFA World Cup, securing an…
Algeria's appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has created one of the tournament's more…
Lionel Messi delivered one of the most memorable performances of the 2026 FIFA World Cup…
Jamie Foxx is one of comedy’s biggest stars, and he recently reminded sports fans why…
Joel Bitonio announced his retirement last week, closing the book on a remarkable 12-year career…
The Giannis Antetokounmpo situation remains one of the biggest stories in the NBA, as speculation…