The NBA G.O.A.T Debate, Who Is It Really?

LeBron James throwing down a dunk after blowing by Carmelo Anthony

Erik Drost via Wiki Commons

LeBron James throwing down a dunk after blowing by Carmelo Anthony

Bryson Taylor, Editor-At-Large

MJ And LeBron

The question of who is the greatest basketball player of all time is a topic of debate among fans and experts everywhere. The two most commonly mentioned players in this discussion are Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

Michael Jordan is often considered the greatest basketball player of all time due to his incredible achievements during his playing career. He won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls, earned five MVP awards, and was named to the All-Star team 14 times. Jordan also holds numerous NBA records and is seen by many as one of the most dominant and influential players in the sport’s history.

LeBron James, on the other hand, is also considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He has won four NBA championships with three different teams, earned four MVP awards, and has been named to the All-Star team 18 times. James is known for his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways, as well as his never before seen longevity and durability.

Ultimately, the question of who the GOAT is largely depended on personal opinions and preferences. Both Jordan and James have had incredible careers and have achieved a level of success that few players have ever reached. Some people may argue that Jordan’s six championships and dominance in the 90s make him the GOAT, while others may point to James’s all-around game and longevity as evidence of his greatness.

Why Could LeBron Be The Goat?

One of the key reasons why LeBron is often mentioned in the GOAT conversation is his beyond-impressive statistical achievements. He is currently ranked in the top five all-time in both career points and assists, and as stated earlier, he has also won four NBA championships, and four MVP awards, and has been named to the All-Star team 18 times. His all-around game and ability to impact the game in multiple ways, including scoring, rebounding, passing, and defense, make him a unique and versatile player. As of this season, James also holds the all-time scoring title.

MJ and LeBron together at a basketball game, being chased by the press. (Erik Drost via Wiki Commons)

Another factor that contributes to James’s legacy is his longevity and consistency. He has been playing at an extremely high level for nearly two decades and has remained one of the NBA’s top players well into his 30s. His durability and ability to avoid serious injury have also helped him maintain his dominance over the years.

Why Could MJ Be The Goat?

First and foremost, Jordan has won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls, earning Finals MVP honors in all six of those series. He also won five regular season MVP awards and was named to the All-Star team 14 times. Jordan is widely known as one of the most dominant and competitive players in the history of the sport, and his ability to perform at an elite level in clutch situations is legendary.

Jordan’s impact on the game of basketball also cannot be overstated. He helped popularize the sport around the world, and his style of play and competitive spirit inspired generations of basketball players. His iconic brand, Air Jordan, revolutionized the shoe industry and remains one of the most popular and recognizable brands in the world.

Michael Jordan on the 1997 Chicago Bulls (Courtesy of Steve Lipofsky via Wiki Commons)

Why MJ Is NOT Seen As The Goat

While Jordan’s accomplishments are certainly impressive, other players have surpassed his records in various statistical categories, such as points or rebounds. For example, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron have scored more points in their career than Jordan did, and LeBron James has passed Jordan in several key statistical categories as well.

Along with that, his style of play may not be as well-suited to the modern game, Jordan played in a different era of basketball when the game was more physical and emphasized mid-range jump shots and isolation play. Some argue that his style of play may not translate as well to the modern game, which emphasizes three-point shooting and a more team-oriented approach.

Why LeBron Is NOT Seen As The Goat

LeBron has fewer NBA championships than some other all-time greats: While James has won four NBA championships, there are other players who have won more, such as Michael Jordan with six and Bill Russell with 11. Some argue that championships are the ultimate measure of success in basketball and that James’ four titles may not be enough to elevate him to the status of GOAT.

Along with that, he has lost in the NBA Finals several times. While James has won four NBA championships, he has also lost in the NBA Finals on several occasions. Some argue that his record in the Finals, which includes several losses, takes away from his overall legacy. Some may argue that simply making it that many times is equally as impressive, however.

So, Who Is The Goat?

While LeBron James is undoubtedly one of the greatest basketball players of all time, there are certainly arguments to be made for why he may not hold the title of GOAT. Ultimately, the debate is highly subjective and dependent on individual opinions and criteria. However, many would agree that the final answer is the king of basketball himself, LeBron James. Looking at the comparisons of eras, teams, statistical achievements, longevity, athleticism, and much more helps add to his case by a LOT. The question of whether LeBron James is the definitive GOAT is subjective and open to debate, but his impressive statistical achievements, longevity, consistency, and impact on the game of basketball make him a strong contender for the title of greatest basketball player ever.