The way Hill was racking up triple-doubles, he looked like James long before LeBron even arrived . LeBron James is always pitted against Michael Jordan in the GOAT debate. However, as far as player comparisons are concerned, many people say that LeBron is more like Magic Johnson than Michael. Some even compare his game to that of MJ’s sidekick, Scottie Pippen.
During an episode of Open Court, 2004 NBA Finals MVP Chauncey Billups gave another LeBron comp, and it was also valid.
“Grant Hill was the first LeBron James,” said Billups. “I’m talking context straight triple-double and dominating the game playing defense. The dude did everything; nobody did that before that.”
Grant was the next Jordan
Hill was the 1995 co-Rookie of the Year who took the NBA by storm with his otherworldly athleticism and elite all-around skills. His charisma complimented his game and made people call him the next MJ.
Like ‘King James,’ Grant was an exciting open-court player who could finish above the rim. Hill also had a reliable jump shot and was a good rebounder. Although LeBron may be the better point guard, the 6’8” Duke product was also a terrific playmaker and excellent passer.
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During his Detroit days, Hill averaged 21.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game in six seasons. Those numbers are similar to LeBron’s career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per contest.
Barkley said LeBron was bigger, and Hill wasn’t as consistent
However, Billups’ statement drew a reaction from Charles Barkley, who argued that Bron is around 30 pounds heavier than G-Hill and that the former Blue Devil wasn’t able to consistently show that all-around brilliance. Chuck then went on to offer his Dream Team teammate Pippen as an alternative LeBron comparison.
Not only did Billups reject Barkley’s player comp, but the rest of the guests—Shaq, C-Webb, Reggie Miller, and Zeke—laughed hard at it as if mocking Pippen. Pip was a terrific all-around player in his own right, but he was no LeBron, especially in his ability to carry the league. When Michael retired, Hill was being groomed to be the heir apparent, not Scottie.
But injuries halted Hill’s meteoric rise. He finished his career with averages of 16.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, which were not so similar to James’ but more like Pippen’s. We all know, however, that he was going to be LeBron or even Michael if he didn’t get hurt.
