LeBron James’ versatility to play any position on the court makes him one of the best players of all time. Even if someone doesn’t have James as their GOAT, they agree that the King is undoubtedly the best all-around player in NBA history.
Another fact to prove that is LeBron is the only player in the history of the league who has been listed at five positions (point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward, and center) during his career. Let’s take a look at the first time when the King was listed at each position in his 20-year-long career in the NBA.
Starting things off with the point guard position, LeBron James was listed as PG for the first time in his career during the 2019-20 NBA season. The King won the 2020 NBA title while fulfilling the duties of the floor general for the Los Angeles Lakers. He also played as the facilitator of the team in the 2020-21 NBA season.
After being picked as the number one overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers listed him as a shooting guard for his rookie season. James played the first 79 games of his career as an SG during the 2003-04 season.
Next is the small forward position. The King was first listed as an SF in the 2004-05 NBA season with the Cavaliers. It’s the position that he prefers the most, as he has played 12 seasons as an SF. James is usually regarded as a small forward by most.
The King can also play as a power forward for his team if required. LeBron was listed as a PF during the 2012-13 NBA season by the Miami Heat. He has played four seasons as the number four for his team.
Lastly, LeBron was listed as a center for the 2021-22 NBA season by the Los Angeles Lakers. He played 56 games as number five in his career. It made the King the only player in NBA history to be listed at all five possible positions during his career.
LeBron James Doesn’t Care About Which Position He Played At
The 38-year-old superstar has always been praised for his incredible versatility throughout his career. It’s no surprise that many have wondered how James manages to play at any position in the game.
Back in 2020, LeBron explained he simply doesn’t care about which position he is listed as during games.
“I’m not a PG, SG, SF, PF, C. I’m a ball player. Put me out on the floor with whoever & I’ll make things happen.”
LeBron is truly one of a kind player and we may never see a player like him ever step foot in the again for decades. As of now, James is contemplating whether he’ll return to play for the Lakers this summer. In the 20th season of his NBA career, James averaged 28.0 PPG, 8.3 RPG, and 6.8 APG.
