‘It makes me work even harder to get to the level of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson’: When LeBron James addressed GOAT comparison in high school

LeBron James retweeted a throwback video yesterday. This was an interview he had done with ESPN back in 2002.

The 2020 NBA Finals MVP for the Lakers has been having an offseason full of reminiscence. Recently, he tweeted a video of how he was put under huge pressure by the likes of Bob Costas, saying he would be considered a bust if he didn’t turn out to be a first ballot Hall of Famer.

Also Read: ‘First Ballot Hall of Famer or you’re a bust’: How LeBron James was put under insane pressure in high school

LeBron is by far the most hyped high school athlete of all time. The way he has kept his composure, his wits and managed his public utterances through the course of more than half his life is worth a lot of admiration by itself.

LeBron James interview with ESPN, 2002

The interview in question had deals with comparisons James had with Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson. The fact that those comparisons from 18 years ago are looked upon favorably today is nothing short of astounding.

Appreciative and honored for all those who laid the groundwork before me! Even this #YoungKing🤴🏾 appreciated it! #ThekidfromAKRON👑 https://t.co/c61JRazipp

— LeBron James (@KingJames) December 2, 2020

2002 interview (@KingJames) talks about the comparison to MJ/Magic, dealing with pressure from the public, and striving for greatness 👑 pic.twitter.com/ky7X0gOeMV

— LeBron James Fans (@LeBronTeam) December 2, 2020

Also Read: ‘If I want a killer shot, I’ll take Michael Jordan’: Mark Cuban highlights the circumstances in which he’ll pick LeBron James in GOAT debate

It speaks volumes about LeBron’s careers that he’s overshot even the most optimistic predictions made about him at the beginning of his career. The King is, in every sense of the word, the one true great in NBA basketball today. He has set the gold standard for performances for over 13 seasons now.

One wonders how much longer he can carry on in the same fashion. But given how well he takes care of his body, it wouldn’t be out of question if he continues playing at a high level till 2023.