In a recent episode of 7PM in Brooklyn, a Wave Sports + Entertainment Original, hosted by NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, former NFL star Chad Ochocinco shared an unforgettable story about beating LeBron James 1-on-1.
The conversation quickly turned to Ochocinco’s athleticism and basketball skills, with the retired wide receiver claiming he could have been one of the best basketball players in the NBA.
When Anthony pressed him about his legendary 1-on-1 victory over James, Ochocinco didn’t hold back.
“You gotta think about something, right? I’m probably one of the greatest basketball players who really never had the opportunity to play,” Ochocinco said with confidence.
He went on to explain that despite his football career, he had developed a special skill set in basketball over the years.
“I could have come off the bench for the Knicks when you were there,” he added, referencing his past friendship with Anthony. “I have a skillset that I honed over 30 years. I just never had the opportunity to play.”
Ochocinco’s bold claims didn’t stop there. He not only mentioned beating James in a 1-on-1 game but also took shots at other NBA stars.
“I beat Bron, I beat D-Wade, honestly I’ll probably beat ya’ll two [Carmelo Anthony and Rudy Gay] in your prime,” he said. “I’ll beat you now. It don’t matter. I’m really like that.”
Although many know Ochocinco for his flashy football career, the former Cincinnati Bengals star has always been passionate about basketball. He played hoops growing up and famously demonstrated his basketball prowess on several occasions.
His unique combination of athleticism, speed, and agility made him an intriguing presence on the court, even without the same level of formal training that his NBA peers received.
While it’s unclear exactly when or where Ochocinco’s 1-on-1 game with LeBron took place, his confidence in his abilities is unmistakable.
Many may be skeptical about the claim, considering James’ legendary status in the NBA, but Ochocinco’s self-assurance has always been part of his charm.
Despite not having the chance to play professionally in the NBA, Ochocinco’s continued support for basketball is evident. In fact, he has often praised the sport and even mentioned that if he had pursued basketball instead of football, he might have been a major force in the league.
In his conversation with Anthony, Ochocinco also highlighted why he believes he’s one of the best athletes to have ever crossed over from one sport to another.
“I’m the best basketball talent to play in the NFL,” he boldly declared, leaving little doubt about his belief in his own unique abilities.
