Michael Jordan or LeBron James, who’s the best basketball player of all time? It’s a topic that has caused many arguments, heated discussions and it’s even responsible for breaking up friendships.
For many, Jordan’s resume in the NBA Finals takes down all arguments: 6 of 6 in championship games, with none of the series going to 7 games. James, on the other hand, has gone to the Finals 10 times – a very impressive number on itself – but has only been able to get the Larry O’Brien Trophy four times.
Reignited the debate! Resurfaced video of Jordan getting a louder ovation than LeBron in Cleveland
Things are different when we talk about longevity: Michael played 15 seasons in the NBA, but enjoyed little success during his first years on the league – he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1984 – until he finally got his first championship in the league in 1991.
Jordan‘s last years with the Washington Wizards – from 2001 to 2003 – were not great. LeBron, on the other hand, is well into his 22nd season in the league, and is still one of the most dominant players in professional basketball. That’s one of the reasons why he’s the player with the most points in NBA history (41,924 so far).
Resurfaced video reignites the debate
A video posted online reminded everyone of the heated debate when it comes to who’s the real basketball GOAT. The images show the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team members who were recognized at the 2022 All-Star Game, hosted in Cleveland, the home of LeBron James for many years.
The kid from Akron, Ohio, got a standing ovation when he was presented to the crowd at Rocket Arena, and rightfully so. LeBron has a record of 546-303 with the Cleveland Cavaliers in his career, including an epic NBA championship in 2016, where the superstar took down the Golden State Warriors.
However, the crowd was even louder when Michael Jordan was introduced to the arena. It’s fair to say that he was the most beloved player of that night. MJ was one of the biggest Cavaliers‘ rivals and he’s well known for an iconic buzzer-beater against Cleveland in the 1989 playoffs that was a painful shot to the hearts of the Cavs fans.
LeBron continues to shatter records
There’s no doubt about LeBron James‘ greatness, as he continues to shatter records and play at the highest level in the league. The Los Angeles Lakers forward was named NBA Western Conference Player of the Month, extending his league-record to 41 monthly awards, including three with the Purple and Gold.
James, who turned 40-years-old in December, becomes the oldest player to ever win a Player of the Month award, passing the previous record set by legendary forward Karl Malone (age 37) with the Utah Jazz in November of 2000.
LeBron also became the first player in NBA history to record multiple 40-point games at the age of 40. In 27 games since turning that age, James has averaged 26.1 points on 54.1% shooting from the floor, 42.3% from 3-point range and 76.9% from the foul line, while adding 8.2 rebounds and 8.2 assists in 34.5 minutes.
