Jalen Johnson has been one of the biggest stories to come out of the 2025-26 season. He continues to show significant growth, recently making his first All-Star selection. After a rather slow start to his career, the Atlanta Hawks forward is finally getting to enjoy the spotlight.
Making his official debut in the 2020-21 season, Johnson grew up watching LeBron James , whom he idolized. Juggling between the Hawks and its G League affiliate, the College Park Skyhawks, he had to wait it out before getting the opportunity to go up against King James.
However, when the day finally arrived, it also happened to be LeBron's 38th birthday back on 30th December 2023. Hosting the Los Angeles Lakers at the State Farm Arena, Johnson was indeed excited yet nervous as he looked to go up against someone he greatly admired.
"I was definitely starstruck … That was sick.Because last year I seen him play and now this time I'm actually playing against him.That's a little bit different. That was my hero growing up… my idol," stated JJ, who came off the bench during that game.
James ensured to put on a show for his fans on his birthday, dropping a 47-point double-double as the Lakers defeated the Hawks 130-121. He was also one assist shy of a triple-double. The four-time champion and MVP also had his mother, Gloria and wife, Savannah, in attendance.
"Atlanta has always been kind and welcoming to myself and my teammates, no matter what uniform I've been in. They've always respected the game," said James postgame.
On the other hand, living his dream, Johnson didn't let the presence of James intimidate him. Coming off the bench, the 6'8" forward had 15 points, seven rebounds and two steals on 5-for-9 shooting from the field. Fast-forward to today, JJ has come a long way, earning All-Star status.
His graph certainly caught LeBron's attention as well, who even drew parallels between Jalen and Scottie Pippen.
James has kept a close eye on Johnson, guiding the Hawks forward toward All-Star status. In a recent episode of his podcast, Mind the Game, LeBron heaped praises on JJ, going as far as drawing parallels between him and the Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen.
"I mention Scottie Pippen. And obviously, he has a long way to go, but as far as the talent, you look at a guy with long arms, 6'9", 6'10", runs like a deer, super athletic. He's improved his outside touch… putting pressure on the rim, his ability to rebound, he can guard 1-5… and his playmaking, I see that he's going to continue to improve. One thing about our league, it's all about confidence and opportunity… I love his ceiling," stated James.
From bouncing between the NBA and the G League to becoming a full-time starter, Johnson has climbed every rung the hard way. And now, the kid who once watched LBJ in awe is sharing the floor with him as an equal. He's come a long way — and he's only getting started.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Feb 11, 2026, where it first appeared in the Off The Court section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
