Michael Jordan is grateful for LeBron James' suggestion last week to retire No. 23 leaguewide, but the Hall of Famer says there are several more players just as worthy of the honor, according to an ESPN.com report Friday.

Jordan, speaking by phone on "All Access with Ahmad" on NBA TV, reportedly said he would have to be among a group of players to receive the distinction.

"It was very nice, I totally understand that," Jordan said on NBA TV. "But I'm a guy that says there is no one great player in the NBA. The NBA lasts a lot longer than one particular person, so I understand what his point is."

James said he would change jersey numbers — from No. 23 to No. 6 — next season in honor of Jordan, and he said no other players should wear No. 23, either.

A leaguewide retirement of the number is unlikely, since the NBA leaves those decisions to each individual team.

"Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Bill Russell. All those guys should have their jerseys retired, too," Jordan said. "I understand his gesture, but I am in the same group as those guys, so I wouldn't want to see my jersey retired unless you retire those guys. It is a compliment. I totally understand that. I appreciate LeBron for doing that and it is very thoughtful."

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