LeBron James Drops Bold Claim About Epic Pickup Game With Michael Jordan

The basketball world has long been fascinated by stories of young LeBron James playing against seasoned NBA stars, and one tale stands out above the rest. In a recent episode of the New Heights podcast, hosted by NFL stars Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce, the Los Angeles Lakers legend confirmed the infamous rumor of his participation in a pickup game with none other than Michael Jordan and other NBA veterans.

LeBron, now 40 years old and in his 22nd NBA season, revealed that this game took place when he was just 16 years old, a sophomore in high school. Beyond simply confirming the event, LeBron boldly declared that his younger self was “unguardable” during the legendary matchup.

The Myth Becomes Reality

LeBron began by explaining how challenging it was for young players to earn a spot on the court in such high-profile games.

“First of all, MJ [Michael Jordan], Antoine Walker, and the rest of those guys did not let young guys get on the court at all,” LeBron said. “I was 16 years old, a sophomore in high school. It takes a while to get on the court. Usually, it’s when the older guys get tired and don’t want to play anymore.”

Eventually, LeBron seized his chance to step onto the court alongside basketball legends like Michael Jordan, Antoine Walker, Penny Hardaway, Ron Artest, and Michael Finley.

When Travis Kelce asked who guarded him during the game, LeBron didn’t hesitate: “Nobody. I was unguardable,” he said with a straight face, prompting laughter from the Kelce brothers.

LeBron admitted he felt nervous playing against some of the biggest names in basketball but quickly overcame his jitters.

“When I finally got out there, I was like, ‘I’m busting a–.’ I was nervous as hell being out there with MJ and the rest of those guys. But I told myself, ‘Oh, I’m about to go crazy.’ And I did.”

Witness Accounts of a Rising Star

LeBron’s claims were supported by Metta Sandiford-Artest (formerly known as Ron Artest), a 17-year NBA veteran who also played in that fabled game. Speaking on the Podcast P with Paul George in May 2024, Artest described LeBron’s performance as nothing short of extraordinary.

“Everybody knew who he was. He was already famous. He was bigger than all of us in the gym,” Artest recalled. “So he’s coming into the gym, and I’m like, ‘Alright, cool, I wanna see what he’s got.’ And he’s cooking. He’s 15 or 16, posting up, getting to the basket.”

Artest admitted he was immediately impressed: “I’m like, ‘This is going to be a huge issue.’”

These comments echoed the sentiment of those who watched LeBron dominate from an early age, foreshadowing the incredible career that was to come.

The Road to Greatness

LeBron James’ early display of dominance in that pickup game is a testament to his innate talent and work ethic. Even as a teenager, he showcased the basketball IQ, physicality, and skill set that would later make him one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Now, at age 40, LeBron remains a force to be reckoned with in the league. His longevity and ability to perform at a high level in his 22nd season are a rarity in professional sports.

This story of his teenage triumph against legends like Michael Jordan and Penny Hardaway highlights the unique path he took to NBA superstardom. It’s a reminder that LeBron’s greatness didn’t emerge overnight; it was evident from the very beginning.

The Legacy of the Pickup Game

The iconic pickup game in Chicago has become more than just a piece of basketball folklore—it’s a defining moment in the legend of LeBron James. The story not only underscores his confidence and talent as a young player but also serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes around the world.

For LeBron, it was one of the first steps in a journey that would include multiple championships, MVP awards, and a career that continues to rewrite the record books. As Metta Sandiford-Artest said, “This is going to be a huge issue.” And for the basketball world, LeBron James has been exactly that—an unstoppable force.

Whether you’re a fan of Michael Jordan or LeBron James, this legendary game is a reminder of what happens when two eras of greatness collide, even if only for a fleeting moment in a Chicago gym.