LeBron James Names Forgotten Former Maverick ...see more

LeBron James Names Forgotten Former Maverick, Laker That Changed the Game …see more

LeBron James has once again used his platform to shine a light on a former NBA player whose impact often goes unnoticed. In a recent interview, the four-time NBA champion and all-time leading scorer praised former point guard Nick Van Exel — a player he believes had a major influence on the modern game.

“People really forget how good Nick Van Exel was,” LeBron said. “He had that deep shooting range, slick handle, and played with a swagger that inspired a whole generation. He changed the game in ways people don’t always recognize.”

Van Exel, who played for both the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks during his 13-year NBA career, was known for his flashy playstyle and fearless approach. Though he was never the face of the league or a championship winner, he earned an All-Star nod in 1998 and consistently brought energy and creativity to every team he played for.

LeBron’s praise comes at a time when fans and analysts are increasingly looking back at underappreciated stars who helped lay the foundation for today’s positionless, fast-paced style of basketball. Van Exel’s influence, especially as a smaller guard with range and quickness, fits that narrative perfectly.

Following LeBron’s comments, clips of Van Exel’s highlights resurfaced on social media, sparking renewed appreciation for the veteran guard. Many fans echoed James’s sentiment, calling Van Exel a “trailblazer” for today’s point guards.

For LeBron, who has long been vocal about respecting the game’s history, the shout-out serves as a reminder that greatness isn’t always defined by rings or headlines — sometimes, it’s about the quiet legacy left behind.