LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James paid tribute to NFL running back, Hollywood actor, and civil rights activist Jim Brown after it was announced that the latter died at his LA home on Thursday, May 18, at the age of 87. James took to Instagram to share a series of photos and videos with Brown over the years and wrote, “We lost a hero today.”
“Rest in Paradise to the legend Jim Brown,” he continued. “I hope every Black athlete takes the time to educate themselves about this incredible man and what he did to change all of our lives. We all stand on your shoulders, Jim Brown,” James added. Along with his message, James also posted a video from his time with Cleveland Cavaliers at Game 3 of the 2015 NBA Finals. In the viral moment, James could be seen bowing to Brown, who was sitting courtside, with folded hands. The latter was also seen reciprocating the gesture.
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‘Jim Brown was a God’
James continued to honor Brown in his lengthy tribute post for the late legend. “If you grew up in Northeast Ohio and were Black, Jim Brown was a God,” the athlete wrote. “As a kid who loved football, I really just thought of him as the greatest Cleveland Brown to ever play,” James stated. “Then I started my own journey as a professional athlete and realized what he did socially was his true greatness,” he added.
“When I choose to speak out, I always think about Jim Brown. I can only speak because Jim broke down those walls for me,” James shared. “I am so grateful that I was able to call you my friend. I hope I can continue to honor your legacy with my words and actions. My prayers to your family. I know they are all incredibly proud of everything you did for our community! #LegendsNeverDie” he concluded.
'Well said king!'
Social media users were quick to comment on James’ tribute post for Brown. “Well said king!” one wrote. “The greatest player in NBA history and the greatest player in NFL history,” another commented. “Let this motivate you brother, he’s watching from the heavens above. Lakers in 6,” one wrote. “RIP Legend. Now let’s use this as motivation for the rest of the playoffs,” a fourth mentioned. One user said, “Rip jim brown. I hope in his honor you find your three ball. He would be really happy if you did,” while another added, “Watch over us Jim , Lakers in 6.” “Incredible moment. RIP Cleveland legend,” one said in reference to James and Brown’s video. One user wrote, “Factsssss LEBRON, and not ONLY a good athlete but a awesome actor, I still love him and Isaac Hayes in IM GONNA GET U SUCKA. How much 4 a order of RIBBS!!!! RIP JIM BROWN… condolences to his fam” while another added, “You are so much then just an incredible basketball player. Takes one great man to understand another one. Very proud of you brother for using your platform to stand for social justice, equality and opportunity. I firmly believe your legacy is just as incredible and still in the making!”
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