The NBA GOAT conversation is a debate that will never end. From Michael Jordan, to Kobe Bryant, to Kareem and Shaq, there are no shortage of players who can be considered the best.
According to rapper and entrepreneur Rick Ross, Mike is number one, followed by a rather surprising list of names to round out the Top 5.
Rick Ross: "The GOAT is Michael Jordan."
1. Michael Jordan
2. LeBron James
3. Charles Barkley
4. Shaquille O' Neal
5. Kobe Bryant pic.twitter.com/BOK4pu8qW3
— Club Shay Shay (@ClubShayShay) January 20, 2021
It’s no surprise that Ross considers Jordan the greatest. Really, it’s only the most modern generation of people who like to argue otherwise. What Jordan was able to do in Chicago, coupled with his unrivaled talent and feel for the game, his placement at the top is well deserved.
LeBron James, who ranked second on Ross’ list is slowly gaining favor with the NBA community. His longevity, popularity, and impressive resume are all making a pretty strong case.
By far, though, it’s Barkley who is the most surprising and outlandish name on the Top 5 list. While Barkley was extremely dominant in his day, he retired without a single Championship, which is obviously a flaw that disqualifies him from most of everyone’s Top 10 list.
Finally, at four and five, Rick Ross names Shaq and Kobe, guys who had unprecedented swagger and dominance.
In the comments, fans discussed:
CAN WE PLEASE LET LEBRON FINISH HIS CAREER 🤦🏾♂️ The argument isn’t fair to him or MJ
— ⚜️ Teddy Penderstash #firemickey⚜️ (@Terranc71785436) January 20, 2021
https://twitter.com/QueenJuuJuu/status/1353043575177682945
Normally I’m ok with people putting Mike over Jordan but having Charles 3rd discredited his whole list….
— BrokenEyez (@BrokenEyezLLC) January 20, 2021
Anyone put Barkley 3 and shaq 4 can just go on with they list. Imagine saying Charles Barkley and Shaq were better at playing the game of basketball than Kevin Durant.
— From The A (@goatjameslbj) January 20, 2021
https://twitter.com/Nique_Milli/status/1351688206706765824
Barkley at 3? W no Magic, Bird or Kareem?
— Ludwi (@louisnesbitt) January 20, 2021
Ross’ ranking is insanely controversial, but it definitely deserves some points for originality. What do you think? Is he on to something with his selections, or did he expose just how much he hasn’t followed the game?
