In a candid and emotional appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, LeBron James opened up about his relationship with NBA legend Michael Jordan.
Despite being widely regarded as two of the greatest basketball players of all time, LeBron revealed that he and Jordan have yet to develop a close relationship, though he hopes that will change once his playing days are over.
“We Don’t Talk” – But There’s Respect
When asked by McAfee if he and Jordan were in a good place, LeBron responded honestly:
“Yes, we are in a good spot. We don’t talk.”
The four-time NBA champion explained that his ongoing pursuit of greatness has kept him from forging a meaningful connection with Jordan. He acknowledged that as long as he’s still competing and their names are linked, that distance will remain. However, LeBron expressed a desire to change that once his playing days are over.
“I hope when I’m done we can have a conversation.”
LeBron hopes that, like with Kobe, his relationship with Jordan will grow once their competitive journeys are no longer intertwined. Until then, the natural distance remains — but he looks forward to the day when that changes.
Jordan’s Ruthless Competitive Nature Creates Distance
LeBron believes that a similar dynamic is at play with Michael Jordan, explaining that MJ’s ultra-competitive nature may be a reason for their lack of communication.
“I think it’s because I’m still playing. And MJ, we all know MJ. Even if you don’t know him personally, he’s the most ruthless competitor there is. And until I’m done and he doesn’t have to look at me run up and down wearing the number 23, and every time my name is mentioned with his, he’s like, ‘I don’t want to talk to you. I’m on the back nine, do not call me.’”
LeBron acknowledged that Jordan’s relentless competitive spirit, even long after his retirement, may be a barrier to any meaningful conversations between them while LeBron is still an active player.
“I Wear 23 Because of MJ” – LeBron’s Lifelong Admiration
Despite the distance between them, LeBron has never hidden his admiration for Jordan. He credits MJ as one of his greatest inspirations growing up in Akron, Ohio.
“I wear 23 because of MJ. The inspiration that he gave me as a kid in Ohio, when you don’t have much inspiration in your hometown… Will Smith and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Michael Jordan playing for the Bulls, and Jay-Z, Biggie, and Tupac. That was my inspiration.”
LeBron’s reverence for Jordan extends beyond basketball, recognizing him as a larger-than-life figure who motivated an entire generation. It’s clear that for LeBron, wearing 23 isn’t just about honoring a basketball icon — it’s about acknowledging the impact Jordan had on shaping his journey.
Though LeBron and Jordan have yet to develop a deep relationship, LeBron remains optimistic that once he hangs up his sneakers, the competitive barrier will disappear.
