Jerry West named the NBA’s ultimate GOAT during an interview before his passing

Jerry West named the NBA’s ultimate GOAT during an interview before his passing


Jerry West, the NBA legend and the Lakers’ most important figure,passed away today at the age of 86. The iconic logo of the league, West was undoubtedly one of the most knowledgeable individuals about the sport after he spend more than 60 years in the league, so when he spoke about basketball, everyone listened.

West played in a completely different eracompared to today. During his career in the 1960s, the Celtics, led by Bill Russell, dominated the league, winning nine championships in the 14 years West was in the NBA. West himself won only one championship and remains the only player to win the Finals MVP on a losing team (1969).

With over 60 years involved in the NBA, West knew or was aware of most of the significant players who have ever played in the league. This includes legends like Magic Johnson, Bill Russell, Larry Bird, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,Stephen Curry, and Tim Duncan, among others. In a 2022 episode of Terrell Owens’ podcast “Getcha Popcorn Ready,” West shared his thoughts on who he considered the greatest of all time (GOAT) between Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James.

“The thing I like about Michael Jordan is he never changes,” West said, hinting at his choice. He further added, “This guy has done more spectacular things than any other basketball player I’ve ever seen,” referring to Jordan’s defensive abilities. Jordan’s accolades include 10 NBA scoring titles, three steals’ titles, one Defensive Player of the Year award, and nine All-Defensive Team selections-an impressive array of achievements.

Kobe Bryant, on the other hand, won two scoring titles but never led in steals or won a Defensive Player of the Year award, though he was selected to 12 All-Defensive Teams. LeBron James boasts one scoring title and six All-Defensive selections. Statistically, Jordan’s all-around numbers and achievements stand out compared to Bryant and James.

West undoubtedly had the criteria to make such determinations, even if he wasn’t particularly fond of these debates. He mentioned in another podcast that there are many “baby GOAT’s” in the current NBA. The level of play rises year after year, and without a doubt, the NBA now has the most talented players it has ever had in its history.





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