The GOAT debate is the NBA fandom’s favorite pastime. It’s discussed time and time again on every social media platform. Most of the comments on any of LeBron James’ posts are about Michael Jordan being better or his fans hyping him up. This same scenario occurs on random posts to do with either as well, with both factions of supporters passionate about their own favorite’s case to be considered the GOAT.
Media members, analysts, and former players know this as well, they often debate the topic during various discussions and media appearances. The most interesting takes come from players that played with and against both MJ and LeBron, the stars that were around during the late 90s and the early 2000s. And while quite a few of the NBA’s greats have given LeBron his due as one of the greatest, many still believe that he has not passed Jordan.
The debate heated up after LeBron led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a championship and was in the NBA Finals from 2011 to 2018. During that time, with a lot of people wavering in their support for MJ, a fair few players still professed the belief that the Bulls legend was greater. This even included some of the King’s former teammates.
Ray Allen Picked Michael Jordan Over LeBron James In The GOAT Debate In 2018
Some maintain to this day that LeBron James’ legacy was saved by Ray Allen’s famous NBA Finals shot in 2013. While that minimizes a lot of what the King achieved, Allen’s contribution cannot be forgotten. And that’s why it was very interesting when in 2018, Allen picked MJ over LeBron in an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show.
“No!” Ray Allen said. “He’s certainly in the top five of all time, but playing against him and MJ, I think for me it’s MJ all day long. Only because of how I played against him, MJ just had everything…from mid-range to 3-point to post-up game and he could score and dominate at each position,” he added. “LeBron is dominant. LeBron could do so many things on the floor”.
Most people do agree that LeBron’s game is marginally more all-around than Michael Jordan’s. That’s why Magic Johnson said that LBJ is much closer to him and that Kobe is a better comparison for Jordan. Ultimately, this debate will rage on forever, and considering that LBJ has won another championship since then and might win more, even Allen’s opinion might just change in the future.
