LeBron James finally uncovers the truth behind his famous pick-up game against Michael Jordan.

For years, LeBron James and Michael Jordan have been a mainstay in the NBA GOAT debate, with each side having good points to support their case.

However, since the two stars never really played against each other, it’s tough to compare them, aside from their accomplishments during their respective careers.

Well, to be honest, there was one time when the King and His Airness locked horns, it was a pick-up game when James was 16 years old.

The 2003 Jordan Capital Classic
Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images

LeBron James on his famous pick-up game against Michael Jordan

At the time of the story, LBJ was just 16 years old and a sophomore in high school. On the other hand, Jordan was around 38 years old.

Anyway, James finally spoke about his famous pick-up game against MJ in a recent episode of the New Heights Show via YouTube.

“When I finally was able to get on the court, first of all, MJ, Antoine Walker, and the rest of those guys did not let young guys get on the court at all. And I was 16 years old, I was a sophomore in high school, and it takes a while to get on the court,” James shared.

“It’s usually when the older guys get tired and they don’t want to play anymore. They’re like, whatever. But I did and I was able to get on the court alongside, I was on the court with Michael Jordan, Antoine Walker, Penny Hardaway, Ron Artest,” the King revealed.

Considering James was still a prospect back then, just getting on the court with so many NBA players must have been an unforgettable moment for him.

However, James didn’t stop there and left his mark on so many NBA veterans.

James was unstoppable

Los Angeles Lakers v Dallas Mavericks
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Till this date, there is no footage of the actual matchup between LBJ and MJ. It’s not surprising since it was a pick-up game. But over the years, many have claimed that 16-year-old James absolutely dominated against seasoned NBA vets.

The King confirmed that in the podcast as he revealed he was unstoppable.

“Who guarded? Nobody. I was unguardable.

“Listen, I’m 16. When I finally got out there, I was like, I’m busting ___ man, nervous to show up. I was nervous as hell,” James continued.

“Being out there with MJ and the rest of those guys. But I’m like, ‘Are you kidding me?’ I was like, ‘Oh, I’m about to go crazy.’ And I did,” the 4x NBA champion concluded.

Despite going against players who were already gassed at that point, it takes an incredible amount of talent to outplay them as a 16-year-old.

Now, fast forward to 2025, James is 40 years old, but he continues to break records and redefine greatness.