Lonzo Ball Reveals His NBA Mount Rushmore: A Personal Take on the Legends
Lonzo Ball, the talented NBA point guard currently playing for the Chicago Bulls, recently shared his personal NBA Mount Rushmore, revealing the four players he believes represent the pinnacle of basketball greatness. This list is a reflection of his own perspective on what makes a player truly legendary — not just their skills on the court, but their influence on the game, their teams, and basketball culture as a whole. The players who made it onto Lonzo’s Mount Rushmore are Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Magic Johnson. Each of these names carries significant weight in the history of the NBA, and their legacies continue to influence the next generation of players, including Lonzo himself.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into why these four players were chosen by Lonzo Ball, analyzing their careers and legacies to understand how they each earned their place on the NBA’s Mount Rushmore.
1. Michael Jordan: The King of the Court
There’s a reason why Michael Jordan’s name is often the first to come up when discussing the greatest basketball player of all time. Widely considered the GOAT (Greatest of All Time), Jordan’s six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and ten scoring titles are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to his remarkable career.
Jordan’s rise to superstardom began in the 1980s, when he made an immediate impact as a member of the Chicago Bulls. His combination of scoring ability, athleticism, and competitiveness revolutionized the game, and his influence went far beyond the basketball court. Jordan’s clutch performances, including his famous game-winning shots, solidified his place as a true competitor. His accolades, such as two separate three-peats with the Bulls, demonstrated his ability to lead teams to championships in the most high-pressure moments.
Off the court, Jordan transformed the NBA into a global phenomenon. His Air Jordan brand, created in collaboration with Nike, became a cultural symbol, and his popularity transcended sports. His ability to draw fans from all walks of life helped the NBA grow exponentially, turning it into a global brand. Jordan’s impact on basketball and sports culture has been immeasurable, making him a foundational figure in Lonzo Ball’s Mount Rushmore.
Jordan’s legacy extends beyond his individual achievements. His leadership and mentality were key to the success of the Bulls during their dominance in the 1990s. His fierce competitive nature and relentless work ethic became the gold standard for future NBA stars. For Lonzo, Jordan’s influence can be seen in how he approaches his game, striving for excellence both individually and as part of a team.
2. LeBron James: The Modern-Day Legend
LeBron James is a player who needs little introduction. His career has been nothing short of remarkable, and his name has been consistently mentioned in the GOAT conversation alongside Michael Jordan. LeBron’s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has made him one of the most complete players to ever step on the court. His longevity and ability to excel in virtually every area of the game are key reasons why he earns a spot on Lonzo’s Mount Rushmore.
LeBron’s journey to greatness began with his selection as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. From the moment he stepped onto the court, it was clear that he was a generational talent. LeBron has since won four NBA championships, earned four MVP awards, and become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 2023.
One of LeBron’s most impressive achievements is his ability to maintain a high level of play over such a long career. While many NBA stars experience a decline as they age, LeBron continues to dominate into his 30s, a testament to his commitment to maintaining peak physical condition and his basketball IQ. His versatility is also unparalleled — LeBron can play and guard virtually any position on the court, making him an invaluable asset to any team.
LeBron’s legacy isn’t just built on his on-court performances. His philanthropy, particularly through his LeBron James Family Foundation and his I PROMISE School for at-risk youth, has made him a role model for future generations. LeBron is a pioneer of athlete activism, using his platform to speak out on social justice issues and positively impact his community. This off-the-court influence is another reason why he earned his place on the Mount Rushmore of NBA legends.
For Lonzo Ball, LeBron’s presence in the NBA has been a guiding light. From LeBron’s court vision and leadership to his ability to elevate teammates, Lonzo has surely taken notes on how to impact a game in similar ways. LeBron’s journey also exemplifies the importance of resilience and adaptability — qualities that have been important for Lonzo as he navigates his own career.
3. Kobe Bryant: The Mamba Mentality
Kobe Bryant, another former Lakers legend, is one of the most beloved and accomplished players in NBA history. With five NBA championships, two NBA Finals MVPs, and an unmatched work ethic, Kobe became the epitome of basketball excellence. His “Mamba Mentality” — a philosophy of relentless pursuit of greatness — became synonymous with his career and continues to inspire athletes in every sport.
Kobe’s journey to greatness began when he was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets and immediately traded to the Lakers in 1996. Over the course of his 20-year career, Kobe became known for his scoring prowess, clutch performances, and unyielding determination. His ability to take over games in critical moments, including his famous 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors, is the stuff of legend.
One of Kobe’s greatest strengths was his competitive drive. His commitment to perfecting every aspect of his game, whether it was his footwork, shooting form, or basketball IQ, made him a unique player. His dedication to his craft was unmatched, and he often spent hours working on his game, even after practice had ended. This mentality inspired not only his teammates but also countless players across the world, including Lonzo Ball.
Kobe’s influence on the game went beyond his individual success. His rivalry with Tim Duncan, Shaquille O’Neal, and others helped define a golden era of NBA basketball in the 2000s. His leadership was key to the Lakers’ championships, and his legacy as a five-time NBA champion solidified his place as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
For Lonzo, Kobe’s mentality is something that transcends basketball. The “Mamba Mentality” has become a philosophy that teaches perseverance, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence — lessons that every player, including Lonzo, can take to heart. Kobe’s legacy is a reminder of the importance of passion and the relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.
4. Magic Johnson: Revolutionizing the Point Guard Position
Magic Johnson’s inclusion on Lonzo Ball’s Mount Rushmore is a reflection of his status as one of the greatest and most influential point guards to ever play the game. Magic’s career with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980s helped define the era of “Showtime” basketball, which was known for its fast pace, dazzling passing, and exciting offensive play. Magic’s ability to orchestrate the offense, his leadership, and his incredible court vision made him a unique player.
Magic’s legendary career included five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and countless assists. What made Magic so special was his size (6’9”) and his ability to play the point guard position like no one before him. In an era dominated by traditional point guards, Magic revolutionized the position with his ability to push the ball, make no-look passes, and elevate the play of his teammates. He redefined what it meant to be a point guard and set the standard for all players who came after him.
Off the court, Magic’s influence was also profound. As one of the most charismatic players of his time, Magic became a cultural icon. His rivalry with Larry Bird, particularly in the 1980s, helped elevate the popularity of the NBA, making it a global sensation. Magic’s legacy extends beyond basketball, as he became a successful businessman and philanthropist, further cementing his place in NBA history.
For Lonzo Ball, Magic Johnson is a direct influence on his style of play. As a pass-first point guard with incredible vision, Lonzo has often drawn comparisons to Magic. Just like Magic, Lonzo’s ability to create for others and run an offense is what makes him special. The influence of Magic’s playmaking skills and leadership qualities can be seen in how Lonzo approaches the game.
Conclusion
Lonzo Ball’s NBA Mount Rushmore is a carefully chosen list of four players who not only defined their eras but also shaped the future of the game. Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Magic Johnson each left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire players, coaches, and fans alike. For Lonzo, these players represent the highest standard of excellence, and their influence is evident in his own career.
As Lonzo continues to grow as a player, he can look to these legends for inspiration, learning from their commitment to excellence, their leadership, and their ability to leave an indelible mark on the game. Each player on his Mount Rushmore helped to elevate the NBA to new heights, and as Lonzo progresses through his own journey, it’s clear that he strives to follow in their footsteps.
