Paolo Banchero reveals why LeBron is by far his favorite player in the NBA: 'Yeah, I'm 100 percent a LeBron guy'

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, now in his 22nd NBA season, continues to inspire younger players, many of whom grew up watching him dominate the league. Among them is Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero, who has cemented himself as one of the NBA's rising stars. The 22-year-old wants to savor every moment he has with his childhood idol.

A longtime admirer

Banchero entered the NBA as the first overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, selected by the Orlando Magic. Known for his versatile skill set, the Duke University standout quickly established himself as a cornerstone for the Magic, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2023. His leadership on the court has been instrumental in revitalizing Orlando's young roster. He combines scoring prowess with playmaking and defensive grit.

A lifelong admirer of LeBron, the young power forward has openly expressed his love for the Lakers star, citing the four-time champion as one of his biggest inspirations. Growing up, he closely followed James' career alongside other greats, and when he had the chance to play against him, it was an incredible moment.

"Yeah, I'm 100 percent a LeBron guy," Banchero said. "Always been a LeBron guy. I always say him, Carmelo [Anthony], and then KD [Kevin Durant]. [James] and Carmelo, from an early age, I remember seeing them on the TV and being obsessed ever since. But it's toward the end of [James'] career. Being that he isn't [in the Eastern Conference], you play him twice a year. So, I'm trying to cherish those matchups."

Memorable encounters

On November 5, 2023, the Magic hosted the Lakers at the Amway Center in Florida. The Magic delivered a 120-101 victory over the Purple and Gold, marking their third win of the last season. One pivotal moment in the game occurred during the third quarter when Banchero executed a slick crossover that left LBJ flat-footed. Gliding past the four-time MVP, the Magic star scored a clean layup, extending his team's lead and igniting the home crowd. The 22-year-old ended the game with 25 points, leading his team to victory and cementing his place as a rising force in the league.

"My first two years, I didn't have good games against them at all until the third time I played against them in Orlando. We beat them, and I had a good game. That was fun playing well against him, playing well against the Lakers. Yes, it sucks because I haven't had a good game in LA. You want to match up with' Bron," Paolo said.

Competing against the four-time MVP represents a career-defining experience for the Duke product. Like many young players, he has studied the Lakers star's game and drawn inspiration from his two decades of dominance. Despite their vastly different career stages, they both share a mutual respect rooted in their love for basketball.