# @sidelinesources on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DecOPNaETUN
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/71590470-sidelinesources-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/f261d9e66e.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-10-13T16:19:40.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Sideline Sources (@sidelinesources) — https://gondola.cc/sidelinesources

## Caption

“MJ inspired me to play the sport, but Penny Hardaway and Grant Hill were the ones that actually shaped my game.” - LeBron

At around 6’7”–6’8”, both Hill and Hardaway had the size of forwards with the ball-handling and playmaking abilities of guards. That combination is a huge part of what made LeBron so special.

Penny Hardaway was a 6’7” point guard who could create his own shot, run an offense, post up smaller defenders and make plays for teammates. LeBron has specifically talked about wanting to handle the ball and play with that same kind of versatility at his size. Penny was essentially a point forward before the role became as common as it is today.

Grant Hill had a similar approach in Detroit. He could grab a rebound, push the ball up the floor himself, attack the basket and create opportunities for teammates without needing a traditional point guard to run the offense. His combination of size, athleticism and court vision made him one of the most complete young players in the league.

The biggest similarity wasn’t just their builds. It was how they used them. All three could see over smaller defenders, exploit mismatches, initiate offense and make the right pass when defenses collapsed on them.

Hill and Penny both dealt with major injuries that limited their careers, but their influence on the next generation of oversized playmakers is undeniable. LeBron took that blueprint and developed it into something even greater, becoming one of the most dominant scorers and passers the game has ever seen.

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 3
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- **Comments:** 214

## Credits

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sideline Sources | @sidelinesources | https://gondola.cc/sidelinesources | Sports Media Outlet |
| Evan Volkman | @EvanVolkman | https://gondola.cc/EvanVolkman | Graphic Designer |

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