LeBron James Honors Jim Brown in lengthy social media Tribute

LeBron James pays his respects to Jim Brown.

Following the news that Jim Brown, a renowned NFL running back, Hollywood actor, and Civil Rights fighter, had passed away Thursday night at the age of 87, LeBron James paid tribute to Brown on Friday.

The Los Angeles Lakers star, 38, wrote a lengthy tribute on Instagram that was shared with images and a video of the two superstars throughout the years.

"We lost a hero today. Rest in Paradise to the legend Jim Brown. I hope every Black athlete takes the time to educate themselves about this incredible man and what he did to change all of our lives. We all stand on your shoulders, Jim Brown."

James posted a video of himself bowing to Brown, who was sitting courtside, when playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers during one of his stays with them, along with his message for the day on Friday. The legendary Cleveland Browns player returned the bow.

Jim Brown was a 'God' in Northeast Ohio for black people

"If you grew up in Northeast Ohio and were Black, Jim Brown was a God," James wrote in his tribute.

"As a kid who loved football, I really just thought of him as the greatest Cleveland Brown to ever play. Then I started my own journey as a professional athlete and realized what he did socially was his true greatness. When I choose to speak out, I always think about Jim Brown. I can only speak because Jim broke down those walls for me."

James concluded, "I am so grateful that I was able to call you my friend. I hope I can continue to honour your legacy with my words and actions. My prayers to your family. I know they are all incredibly proud of everything you did for our community! #LegendsNeverDie"

Monique Brown, Brown's 26-year-old wife, posted the sad news of his passing on Instagram on Friday afternoon.

"It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my husband, Jim Brown," she wrote. "He passed peacefully last night in our LA home. To the world, he was an activist, actor and football star. To our family, he was a loving and wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Our hearts are broken..."