Metta World Peace reminisced about the awe he felt watching a young LeBron James showcase his extraordinary talent in a pickup game attended by none other than Michael Jordan. Reflecting on the moment during an interview on Paul George’s “Podcast P,” Metta World Peace vividly recalled how a 15-year-old LeBron left a lasting impression on everyone present.
“Everybody knew who he was. He was already famous. I’m like, I want to see what he got. He was cooking. He was 15 or 16 posting, getting to the basket and I’m like, ‘This is going to be a huge issue,’ you know, and for sure it was.”
“When I saw that, it motivated me. I’m like, ‘I got to go to work.’ He coming into the league cooking. I was not like that when I was 15. … He could have gone pro right then honestly.”
Metta World Peace described feeling inspired by LeBron’s performance. Witnessing the young phenom dominate the court with his advanced skills and physicality made Peace realize the magnitude of LeBron’s potential. The sight of a teenager holding his own against experienced NBA players was nothing short of extraordinary.
At that time, LeBron was not only creating a buzz but was also putting up phenomenal numbers at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, averaging 25.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game while shooting 58.4% from the field and 39.2% from three-point range in his sophomore year. These statistics highlighted his advanced skill set and underscored why he was such a highly anticipated NBA prospect.
The pickup game took place in Chicago and featured elite stars like Jerry Stackhouse and Jamal Crawford. Playing alongside such seasoned professionals and impressing them was a remarkable feat for someone of LeBron’s age.
In addition to the presence of these NBA athletes, the game was also attended by six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan. Although Jordan was retired, his involvement added an extra layer of significance to the event. Seeing LeBron perform at such a high level in front of the basketball legend underscored the exceptional nature of his abilities.
