Brief
LeBron James wears No. 9 in 76ers practice to honor Dr. J
James explained the number switch as a tribute to the 76ers' retired icon.
By Felo News Desk · Published
LeBron James appeared in a Philadelphia 76ers practice wearing a No. 9 jersey, a departure from his usual practice number of No. 6. Bleacher Report said the change was made out of respect for Hall of Famer "Dr. J" Julius Erving, whose No. 6 is retired by the franchise.
James will wear No. 23 in regular-season games for the Sixers, the number he has worn for most of his career. The report noted that his only prior appearance in a No. 9 jersey was at the 2004 Summer Olympics, the last tournament in which the United States men’s team failed to win gold.
After eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, James signed with Philadelphia to pursue a fifth championship, adding another chapter to his already extensive résumé.
Key facts
- LeBron James wore a No. 9 jersey in his first 76ers practice. (bleacherreport.com)
- The number choice was to honor Julius Erving, whose No. 6 is retired by the Sixers. (bleacherreport.com)
- James will wear No. 23 in regular-season games for Philadelphia. (bleacherreport.com)
- His only other No. 9 appearance was at the 2004 Olympics. (bleacherreport.com)
Sources
- [1] bleacherreport.com — originally reported as “LeBron James' Reason for Wearing No. 9 Jersey at 76ers Practice Revealed in New NBA Rumors”
