Now, try and think of another athlete in professional team sports that can simultaneously be “the man” and can be the best playmaker on the team and arguably in the league. Who else can affect an entire team’s chemistry, confidence, tempo, philosophy and, most importantly, its performance, to the extent of Lionel Messi? Anyone that is a legitimate golf or NBA fan can make a relevant comparison. Jordan Spieth, I’ve got to give you some love. But, the more accurate answer to the question is Lebron James. These two guys have such strikingly similar impacts on those around them, even including their hair. They can be the best while also having teammates that enjoy playing with them. Has anyone ever enjoyed playing with Kobe? When Ronaldo is ripping 35 yarders and not pressing at all, don’t teammates take note of that? Of course they do, and in turn, it makes the game a bit less fun. LeBron and Messi are that unique instance where the best player is the most selfless player. LeBron sees the game just like Messi does—a frame ahead of everyone else. He understands defensive tendencies before opponents realize and exploits them efficiently. Both guys consistently prove to mold their games around making intelligent, team first decisions. Just watch them. Seriously. What is most clear to anyone who has ever watched either guy, is their sheer brilliance.
LeBron James is one of the few athletes that can change a game every time he steps on the court. Courtesy of Wikimedia
