LeBron James has revealed how Jay-Z influenced the way he thinks about business and his value outside basketball.
The NBA superstar met Jay-Z when he was 16 and quickly began paying attention to how the rapper handled business, carried himself and dealt with people.
I would say MJ was my biggest inspiration as far as basketball, but Jay is my big brother. He’s the one who’s given me so much game and has taught me so much.
James said Jay-Z helped him understand the value of knowing what you bring to the table and using your position to create opportunities.
Those lessons stayed with him as he built his own business interests alongside his basketball career.
Even now, James said he sometimes considers whether Jay-Z would be proud of the decisions he makes.
The relationship has given LeBron a mentor outside the basketball world, while his business moves have helped turn him into one of the most influential athletes in the world.