NBA Pokemon: LeBron James is Arcanine

“Capable of running 6,200 miles in 24 hours with a speed and grace reminiscent of flight.”

Now, the above is a sentence written about the Pokemon Arcanine, but you would be forgiven for taking a few seconds to think if you had previously read that about LeBron James. Sure, LeBron probably can’t run 6,200 miles in 24 hours, but he definitely moves with a speed annd grace reminiscent of flight. Heck, sometimes it’s not even reminiscent. Sometimes he just flies.

Standing 6’3″ and weighing 341 pounds, Arcanine is a mammoth of a Pokemon, its size intimidating opponents before the battle even begins. In fact, intimidate is one of Arcanine’s main abilities. Which makes sense. Who wouldn’t be intimidated by a giant tiger-like creature standing bold and brave before them, mane blowing in the wind? Likewise, LeBron James, checking in at 6’8″ and somewhere around 250-270 pounds, is an intimidating force on the basketball court, especially once he gets moving. Some players look at him across the court and are defeated before the ball even tips.

That’s just what legendary Pokemon and NBA players do. Their size and skill are what set them apart, but the mental edge they gain on their opponents is just as big of a factor in preventing others from reaching their level. Their reputation builds on itself, growing exponentially as the tales of their exploits spread. It can lead to feelings of despair and hopelessness for those who have to face Arcanine or LeBron, and at that point, the battle is already over.

These two are legendary figures in their respective fields, and will be until the end of time. LeBron James is Arcanine. Arcanine is LeBron James.