LeBron James has already found a way to show respect to Philadelphia 76ers legend Julius Erving before even playing his first regular-season game for the team.

The veteran forward wore No. 9 during Saturday’s Blue x White Scrimmage at Xfinity Mobile Arena, despite previously wearing No. 6 as his practice number. Though he will wear No. 23 during the regular season, his temporary switch to No. 9 was a deliberate decision.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, James changed his practice number because Erving’s No. 6 jersey is retired by the 76ers and hangs in the arena rafters. Rather than continue wearing the number during practices, James opted for No. 9 during training camp.

The jersey decision becomes extra meaningful because No. 9 has been closely associated with James' family. His son, Bronny James, has worn the number during his NBA career.

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LeBron himself wore No. 9 while playing high school football at St. Vincent-St. Mary and during the 2004 Olympics with Team USA. The four-time NBA champion has a long history with No. 6 as well. He wore it during his four seasons with the Miami Heat, returned to No. 23 after going back to Cleveland, and later switched to No. 6 again with the Los Angeles Lakers. He eventually returned to No. 23 in Los Angeles.

The decision in Philadelphia is particularly fitting given Erving's place in franchise history. The Hall of Famer helped establish the 76ers as one of the NBA's premier teams and remains one of the most celebrated players in franchise history.

James made his unofficial Philadelphia debut during Saturday's scrimmage alongside Tyrese Maxey and the rest of the roster. He also showed that he still has plenty left in the tank, throwing down an impressive dunk while creating opportunities for his teammates.