Yahoo Sports’ Chris B. Haynes reported Friday that the switch was put off for a year because Nike, the uniform manufacturer, did not grant permission. The Lakers and James needed Nike’s approval because the proposed switch was to be made after the March 15 deadline for changes.
More from Haynes:
James decided not to pursue the change after Nike weighed in, Haynes reported.
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James wore 23 during his two stints with the Cavaliers but wore 6 while playing for the Heat. He reportedly was going to return to 6 with the Lakers after giving Davis 23.
Davis’ new number will likely be revealed at his introductory news conference Saturday. (UPDATE: Davis revealed it late Friday in Instagram: He’ll wear 3 instead.)
Fans will be denied a version of the passing of the number that James previously staged on Instagram:
There’s a chance Davis will never wear a No. 23 Lakers jersey. He’s signed only through the 2019-20 season and can become a free agent next July.
A post shared by LeBron James (@kingjames) on Jul 7, 2019 at 6:59pm PDT
