Every NBA season, as fans gather in living rooms or sports bars, an inevitable debate sparks: Who was the greatest – Michael Jordan or LeBron James?
What makes this debate so riveting is that, regardless of your allegiance, you defend your stance with fervor.
But sometimes, in the realm of basketball, truth is found in the stats.
Despite LeBron James holding the title of all-time leading scorer, Michael Jordan claims ten scoring championships. Statistically, Jordan outshines as a superior defensive player, clinching the 1988 Defensive Player of the Year and securing a spot on the All-Defensive First Team ten times, while LeBron has managed five.
However, when we delve into the all-encompassing measure of a player’s value, known as “value over replacement,” LeBron James leads every basketball player in history by a substantial margin. The point differences, in part, can be credited to his longevity, but sustaining excellence for two decades as one of the NBA’s top performers is a feat in itself.
Here are the key stats you need to know to settle the GOAT debate:
Both players share immense respect for each other. Still, if ever pressed, Jordan isn’t shy about flaunting his championship rings. Michael Jordan holds the record for the most scoring titles in NBA history, boasting a total of 10.
Yet, Jordan himself has been quoted saying:
“If you asked me, I would never say that I am the greatest player. That’s because I never played against all of the people that represented the league before Michael Jordan.” – Michael Jordan
On the other side, here’s how LeBron sees himself, as stated on his social media:
It’s a perplexing debate for both men. So, let’s look at the stats and how each man has conducted himself in the GOAT discussion, and then let you decide.
- Undefeated in the Finals: Jordan carries two separate 3-peats on his resume, driving each of those championships, and earning the Finals MVP six times. While we can’t entertain “what if” scenarios, there’s a possibility Jordan could have accumulated more championships if not for early retirements or team breakups.
- Controlled both ends of the floor: Michael Jordan not only holds the record for the most scoring titles in NBA history (10), but he was also exceptionally dominant on defense. Winning the Defensive Player of the Year award and being named All-Defense nine times showcases his prowess.
- Never switched teams: Jordan, despite early playoff exits, never hinted at leaving Chicago through free agency or trade. He embraced the challenge of improvement, staying loyal to his team. Some argue that Jordan pursued greatness in his garden instead of chasing championships from team to team.
- Hall of Fame resume: Jordan’s resume boasts two more championships, two Finals MVPs, one regular-season MVP, one Defensive Player of the Year, and nine scoring titles over LeBron James.
- Carried himself as a champion: Long before LeBron James entered the league, Michael Jordan was the undisputed greatest basketball player. However, Jordan, out of respect for legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West, never declared himself the greatest. LeBron James, in contrast, has often ranked himself above the player he once admired as a child.
