LeBron James is close to breaking the NBA’s all-time scoring record, so the debate over who is the greatest of all time has gained fire. Although some of his supporters appear content to acknowledge his excellence, others have persisted in adding gasoline to the fire when it comes to the GOAT controversy. LeBron James in his 20th season in the NBA has achieved far more than any other player ever will. When he retires he will leave behind a legacy that no player ever may be able to conquer.
However, Stephen A. Smith of ESPN believes Michael Jordan is still the GOAT irrespective of whatever James may achieve. According to Smith, winning the title of the greatest scorer is not enough. The achievement, in his opinion, is insufficient for James to supplant Jordan as the GOAT. On First Take, he defended Michael Jordan’s title as the best basketball player of all time.
Speaking on the matter he said, “LeBron James is on the Mount Rushmore of basketball. One of the greatest players to have ever played the game. No doubt about it, he has exceeded expectations, and I have nothing but respect, profound respect, for the greatness of LeBron James. But … he never was, he never has been, nor will he ever be greater than Michael Jordan.”
.@stephenasmith‘s mind is not changing … MJ is the GOAT 🐐
« LeBron James is number two all-time, and Michael Jordan is number one. » pic.twitter.com/26up36k38q
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 3, 2023
He further added, “It’s not even a debate for me. … The only reason I discuss it is because people occasionally ask, and I always get annoyed at the question because I’m appalled that anybody would think I’m going to change my mind based on what I saw. There’s nothing to discuss here.”
