When James Naismith invented basketball in 1891, he did so as a way to build and create Christian values in his players, the first tribute to the basketball gods that he created.
LeBron James is a disciple — he believes that there are greater powers that govern the game. The basketball gods. James believes in the need to honor them in words and in actions.
A spiritual mentor in that regard? Tracy McGrady, who infamously said it felt good to reach the second round of the NBA Playoffs in 2003 after the Orlando Magic had only won three games against the No.