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Soccer star Dani Alves to wear No. 23 in honor of LeBron James

By Taylor Smith

Jun 4, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; Brazil defender Dani Alves (2) prepares to pass the ball against Ecuador during the second half during the group play stage of the 2016 Copa America Centenario at Rose Bowl Stadium. The game ended in a draw with a final score of 0-0. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 4, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; Brazil defender Dani Alves (2) prepares to pass the ball against Ecuador during the second half during the group play stage of the 2016 Copa America Centenario at Rose Bowl Stadium. The game ended in a draw with a final score of 0-0. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Back in the early days of his NBA career, LeBron James was quoted as saying he wanted to become a “global icon.” Three NBA titles, four league MVP awards and a lifetime Nike contract later, it’s safe to say that he’s been successful in reaching that goal and then some.

LeBron’s latest and greatest achievement – bringing a championship to Cleveland after the city had endured its infamous 52-year title drought – seems to have inspired people beyond the basketball community, as well.

Brazilian soccer star Dani Alves, who himself has enjoyed a stellar career that includes three UEFA Champions League crowns and six La Liga titles with Barcelona, made the switch from the Spanish giants to Italian powerhouse Juventus on Monday. At his introductory press conference on Tuesday, the defender announced that he’d wear the No. 23 shirt at his new club in honor of LeBron James (via ESPNFC.com):

"“I’ve picked the No. 23 shirt. LeBron James is someone I admire for the way he constantly reinvents himself and never rests on his laurels, always aiming for new challenges and triumphs.”"

Alves also said that LeBron’s decision to return to Cleveland after his four-year stint with the Miami Heat is what inspired his own move to Italy:

"“After leaving Miami, where he was enjoying a good career, he’s come back with a bang and reinvented himself. It’s a decision that brought about my choice to move to a new country, meet new teammates and experience another type of football.”"

Leaving Barcelona for another world power in Juventus doesn’t exactly rival LeBron leaving the “Flying Death Machine” Heat for the (at the time) downtrodden Cavaliers, but it’s cool to see athletes drawing inspiration from other athletes in different sports.

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