The discussion over GOAT of basketball has been one of the most controversial debates in basketball history. This debate is the argument between Michael Jordan and LeBron James. While Jordan’s career is iconic, my argument is that LeBron James is the example of greatness and is the GOAT (greatest of all time) when it comes to basketball.
First off we can start by considering Lebron’s unbeatable longevity in the game in which he has proven to be successful in different eras. He started as a standout in high school and became a star in the NBA. As the game changed over the years, becoming faster and relying more on game plans, LeBron changed with it. When LeBron was a rookie in 2003, he was already running the league, averaging around 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists a game. Fast forward to today, he’s still putting up numbers now averaging over 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists a game. What stands out is that many players slow down as they age, LeBron seems to have reversed that cycle. Instead of declining, his stats have remained high, showing his ability to adapt throughout different stages of his career. And he now is the oldest player in the league.
When it comes to playmaking, LeBron has the upperhand. Having a forward that is able to run the floor on both ends of the ball is game-changing. His average of 7.4 assists per game outweighs Jordan’s 5.3 career average assists per game. This stat proves that Lebron’s playmaking ability is more impactful than Jordans. On the offensive and defensive side of the ball, Lebron is more skilled in rebounding, LeBron’s 7.4 rebounds per game also edges out Jordan’s 6.2 rebounds per game.
Here is a some of Lebron’s Greatest Accomplishments:
- Four-time NBA Champion: He won championships with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013, the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016, and the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
- NBA Finals MVP: His four Finals MVP victories (2012), (2013), (2016), and 2020
- NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP): Throughout his career, LeBron won the most coveted individual award in the league four times (in 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013).
- NBA All-Star Selections: 17 selections as All-Star.
- NBA All Time Leading Scorer (2023)
In this debate Michael Jordan’s legacy holds significant weight. His six championships, six Finals MVPs, and competitiveness define an era that many consider unbeatable. Jordan’s scoring ability and defensive stats make a strong case for his claim as the GOAT. Also his impact on modern culture has transcended the game of basketball. Jordan is one of the biggest names in the clothing and shoe industry partnering with NIKE. However, there are different things that we have to take into consideration due to the difference in eras. Some might argue that modern defense is much more competitive in comparison to old defense. Generally, today’s players have more athleticism and access modern training equipment. Also, basketball is now a more popular sport, so more people have heard of it, get involved in it from a young age, and work hard for a career in the NBA. Because young players now have access to the internet, they can learn from older players, copy their moves, and improve on them. So in that aspect Lebron has played against more difficult competition than Jordan.
The debate between Michael Jordan and LeBron James has been around for ages. However, judging by their overall impact and statistics, I believe that LeBron is the greatest of all time (GOAT).
