Did LeBron James copy Michael Jordan's iconic chalk toss? Looking back at GOATs' signature pregame ritual

The NBA’s "GOAT" (greatest of all time) debate typically centers around two names: LeBron James and Michael Jordan. Despite playing in different eras and positions, they share many similarities, including a winning mindset, jersey number and even a pregame chalk ritual.

LeBron is famous for his chalk toss routine, where he rubs chalk on his hands and then throws it into the air. Players commonly use chalk to improve their grip before games.

While LeBron James popularized the chalk toss, Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan was actually one of the first to do it. Former Bulls broadcaster John Graham "Red" Kerr explained that Jordan began the ritual after chalk dust would get into the broadcasters’ booth.

“I think it started one time when he put the [chalk] on his hands, and as he dusted it off, Jim (Durham) and I sort of complained about, well, he's getting that stuff all over.” (0:43 mark)

Jordan admitted it was initially just for fun, but it became routine, with Kerr and Durham jokingly using umbrellas to shield themselves from the chalk.

“First, it was just for fun, but now it's more or less a routine. Good luck to him to see what they do to combat that. You know, it's great laughter before I go out and play,” he said. (0:53 mark)

Though Jordan was among the first to do the chalk toss, LeBron James explained in a 2009 video on the NBA’s YouTube channel that he wasn’t aware of its origins when he adopted the ritual.

“I started to really set my mind and get focused on what was at task when I started to do it. Going on the road, sometimes I get booed, so I love it. At home, they go crazy,” LeBron said. (2:06 mark)

“I don’t know what made me start doing it, but it just happens sometimes. Great things happen sometimes.” (2:38 mark)

Did LeBron copy Jordan? Not exactly. LeBron’s toss is more about entertaining fans, while Jordan’s was aimed at the broadcasters. Despite the similarities, their reasons for doing it are distinct.

Looking at the NBA resumes of LeBron James and Michael Jordan

LeBron James, who will turn 40 in December, entered his 22nd NBA season on Tuesday night, tying Vince Carter’s record for most seasons played.

In his first 21 seasons in the NBA, LeBron averaged 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game.

During that time, he earned 20 All-Star selections, won Rookie of the Year, collected four MVPs, four Finals MVPs and captured four NBA championships.

Michael Jordan, meanwhile, played 15 seasons and posted equally impressive numbers, averaging 30.1 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 5.3 apg and 2.3 steals per game.

He made 14 All-Star appearances and accumulated numerous accolades, including Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, five MVPs, six Finals MVPs and six NBA championships. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009.