Particle.news
Download on the App Store

LeBron James Recasts Jordan GOAT Debate, Says Their Games Are Different

He argues the question ignores fundamental differences in role and era.

Overview

  • In ESPN interviews published Wednesday, James said he has never compared himself to Michael Jordan because their games are totally different and explained his pass-first role versus Jordan's shot-first approach.
  • He called the GOAT talk a tiring barbershop debate and said people often tear one player down to praise the other, usually him.
  • He said he hopes he made Jordan proud wearing No. 23 and described studying Jordan's midrange, post game and will to win as a kid.
  • He pushed back on focus on his 4–6 NBA Finals record, noting he is the all-time scoring leader and was the fastest to key point milestones.
  • ESPN's Michael Wilbon said Jordan privately told him in 2010 to take it easy on a young LeBron, a story that points to mutual respect between the two.