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LeBron James: Securing His Seat at the GOAT Table

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As the dust settles on the 2024 Olympics, one name continues to echo in the halls of basketball history—LeBron James. At 39 years old, LeBron led Team USA to a gold medal, his third in an illustrious career, and earned the MVP award for his outstanding performances throughout the tournament. This latest achievement is another jewel in the crown of a career that has redefined longevity and excellence in the sport.

LeBron’s ability to dominate a game filled with younger, faster players nearly two decades his junior is nothing short of remarkable. The NBA veteran, with 22 seasons under his belt, continues to defy the natural decline that comes with age. Still competing at the highest level and showing no signs of slowing down, he has at least two more years left in the NBA, plenty of time to pad his already legendary stats and further cement his legacy.

The debate over who is the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) is one that has spanned decades and is often filled with heated arguments. As a devoted Michael Jordan fan, I understand the reverence for His Airness. Jordan’s six championships, including two three-peats, his five MVP awards, and his unmatched scoring ability during a career that spanned just over a decade, have solidified his place at the head of the GOAT table in the eyes of many. However, LeBron’s career demands that we reconsider how we define greatness in basketball.

What LeBron has accomplished throughout his career is unprecedented. From entering the league as an 18-year-old phenom to now, a seasoned veteran nearing 40, his impact on the game has been profound. His consistency, versatility, and leadership on and off the court have not only brought him individual accolades but have also transformed every team he has played for. His ability to adapt his game as the league has evolved, coupled with his physical and mental endurance, has allowed him to remain one of the best players in the world for more than two decades.

In this debate, perhaps it’s time to shift the conversation. Rather than arguing over who is the single greatest, it’s more fitting to recognize that the GOAT table has multiple seats, each occupied by legends who dominated their respective eras. Michael Jordan, with his unmatched competitiveness and scoring prowess, undeniably has a seat. LeBron James, with his longevity, versatility, and the sheer breadth of his accomplishments, has earned his place as well.

The question that remains is: who sits at the head of the table? For some, it’s Jordan, whose dominance in the 90s was unparalleled. For others, it’s LeBron, whose ability to sustain greatness over two decades is unmatched.

The truth is, both are deserving of the highest honor. They’ve each impacted the game in ways that will be felt for generations, and their legacies will inspire future players for years to come. As LeBron continues his journey in the NBA, his seat at the GOAT table is not just earned—it’s solidified, standing alongside the greats who came before him, with plenty of room for those who may come after.

Basketball

Play by Play Ep 44: The Winning Formula vs. Falling Apart

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n this episode of Play by Play with Jesse Coleman, we break down the winning formula behind the Cleveland Cavaliers’ perfect 15-0 start and how teams like the 11-3 Boston Celtics and 9-4 Los Angeles Lakers are staying dominant early in the NBA season. What sets these teams apart, and how are they building their success?

On the flip side, we shift gears to the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys’ struggles, as they drop to 3-7 amidst a season filled with inconsistency and missed opportunities. Is it a lack of leadership, poor execution, or something deeper? Tune in as we explore what it takes to win—and why some teams just can’t seem to find their rhythm. #NBA #DallasCowboys #Lakers

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Basketball

Episode 42: Shooting Science & WNBA Spotlight with BriAnna Garza

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In this episode of Play by Play with Jesse Coleman, we’re joined by BriAnna Garza, a skilled shooting coach, educator, and the host of 2024’s “Changing The Game” event during March Madness. Brianna shares her insights into the physics of shooting, breaking down the mechanics that can elevate a player’s accuracy and consistency on the court.

We also dive into the exciting 2024 WNBA season, discussing the league’s growth and standout players like Caitlin Clark, who continue to push the game to new heights. Plus, Brianna gives her expert take on the struggles Mikal Bridges has faced with the New York Knicks and explores what adjustments could help refine his jump shot.

From the art of shooting to the WNBA’s impact and player analysis, this episode offers a unique perspective from a true game-changer.


Tune in to Play by Play with Jesse Coleman for this insightful conversation, and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

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A Hall of Fame Journey from the Cherrywoods to Basketball Greatness

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In the storied history of Toledo City League basketball, few players have left a mark as deep and unforgettable as Shareese Ulis (McBrayer). A three-time City League Player of the Year and two-time District Player of the Year, Shareese’s legacy is one of resilience, perseverance, and unparalleled talent. Through her high school career, she battled through some of the league’s toughest competition, repeatedly proving her dominance and earning a place among the legends of Ohio high school basketball.

Dominance on the Court

From her junior season, where she led the City League in scoring with 19.1 points per game, 6 assists, and 4 steals, Shareese commanded attention. Her accolades are numerous: three-time First Team All-District, two-time First Team All-State, and MVP of the North/South All-Star Game. She was a nominee for the prestigious McDonald’s All-American team and was named Ohio State Player of the Year. Shareese incredible stats and honors are a testament to her skill and drive, but they only tell part of her story.

Rising from the Cherrywoods

Fourteen years later, Shareese reflects on her journey, remembering her roots in Toledo’s Cherrywoods neighborhood—a place where survival was often as challenging as her on-court opponents. She recalls the hardship of growing up around violence, where gunshots were all too common and dreams were hard to come by. Raised in an environment where many lacked a clear vision or foundation for the future, Shareese found solace and purpose in basketball.

The game entered her life when she was 12, inspired by watching Allen Iverson play on TV. That spark was all she needed. Without prior experience or knowledge of the game, she dedicated herself to becoming not just good but great. She couldn’t dribble with her left hand or make a layup at first, yet her commitment drove her to master these skills and more, transforming her into a player who would carry her family’s name with pride and break new ground as the first in her family to achieve these milestones.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Basketball became Shareese’s ticket to a brighter future and a way to inspire those around her. She didn’t just play for personal accolades—she played for her family, her community, and the legacy she would leave behind. Now, as she adds “Hall of Famer” to her list of accomplishments, she recognizes her journey as more than a collection of trophies and titles. It’s a story of hope, strength, and the ability to rise above any challenge.

Shareese Ulis (McBrayer) exemplifies what it means to be a champion both on and off the court. She turned obstacles into opportunities, and by doing so, she paved the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy will inspire young athletes who are looking for hope, for an example, and for a reminder that greatness can come from even the most difficult circumstances. Today, we celebrate Shareese—a true legend, a Toledo City League Hall of Famer, and a symbol of what hard work and resilience can achieve.

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