LeBron James could reportedly have a new number next season, but Cleveland Cavaliers fans hope the words remain the same. James filed paperwork to switch from No. 23 to No. 6, The Plain Dealer reported on Monday. He beat a Friday deadline to make the request.
The All-Star said in November that he was thinking of giving up 23 out of respect for his hero Michael Jordan, but at that time he was “50-50,” according to the newspaper.
“I’ve done it,” James told The Plain Dealer. “I already sent it in. I’m going to be No. 6.”
Six is James’ jersey number on the Olympic team, but the NBA does not have to grant his request. If James switches teams, he can choose any number he wishes. The change applies only if he stays with the Cavaliers.
James will be part of the vaunted 2010 free-agent class that includes Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. While Bulls fans would like to see James try to make No. 6 as legendary as No. 23 in Chicago, New York has also maneuvered to have enough cap space to sign him.
Cleveland can sign James to a longer, more lucrative deal, however.
