LeBron James tells story of David Stern asking to borrow draft day suit

David Stern’s passing was to start the New Year set off a cascade of emotions, reactions and eulogies for the commissioner who took the NBA from a novelty league to one of the biggest sports commodities in the world. Among those who shared their feelings after Stern’s death was LeBron James, who shared his sadness and reflection on Wednesday through his Instagram page.

He also discussed Stern’s legacy and the clashes he sometimes had with him. But he also managed to remember one of the lighter moments from Stern that came to characterize him, in addition to his iron hand. James shared the story of Stern jokingly asking him if he could borrow his famous white-on-white draft day suit from the 2003 draft, according to Dan Woike of the L.A. Times.

Before the 2003 NBA Draft — when the future picks were in the back at their most nervous — David Stern left an impression on LeBron. "He told me he wanted to wear my suit one day. I won’t forget that. He told me in the back, ‘You think I can borrow that suit one day?’" pic.twitter.com/pXssGULvqj

— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) January 2, 2020

Not all of Stern’s decisions were popular with owners, players or fans but he ultimately did what he felt was right for the good of the league. Even though LeBron clashed with him, he still holds plenty of respect for all Stern did.