The Lakers confirmed their decision to retire number 6 on Saturday night, in tribute to legend Bill Russell, forcing Lebron James to return to number 23 next season.
The change, posted on the Los Angeles franchise’s social media, comes after the choice to retire number 6 due to the death of the former NBA star, who died on July 31, 2022, an eleven-time NBA champion and five-time named MVP of the season, James’ agent Rich Paul told ESPN.
James, who will start his 21st NBA season at 39, has won the title four times and was MVP four times. He has already played several seasons with the 23, notably during his stints with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The 23 had also been his college basketball jersey.
