LeBron James and Michael Jordan have long been two names placed on the scale in every debate about the title “The greatest of all time” (Goat) of NBA. Recently, Angel Rese, an influential female basketball star, stirred up the fan community when he frankly expressed his opinion that LeBron James surpassed Michael Jordan much. This speech not only shocked but also started a fiery argument on social networks and sports forums.
In terms of data, LeBron James has undeniable advantages. He played more than 20 seasons in the NBA and maintained his peak performance at the age of 40, something Jordan could not do when he finally retired at the age of 38. LeBron is currently the leader of all time in the total score scored in his career, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabar’s record, while Jordan, though excellent but only fifth in this list. Moreover, LeBron shows superior comprehensive scoring, assisting and rebounding, with the average career near the Triple-Double-something Jordan, even a legend, cannot be comparable to a variety of statistics.
In terms of achievement, Jordan is famous for 6 NBA championships and a 6-0 record in the finals, a perfect figure that many people consider him an invincible. However, LeBron has brought 10 different teams to the NBA final, winning 4 championships with 3 different teams (Heat, Cavaliers, Lakers), proving the ability to adapt and lead far beyond the context of the uniform squad of the Jordan Chicago Bulls. The victories of LeBron, especially the historic 3-1 comeback against the 2016 Golden State Warriors, showed that he could overcome the challenges that even Jordan had never faced.
In addition to the field, LeBron also made a mark with durability and cultural influence. He is not only a athlete but also a social symbol, actively participating in charitable activities and fighting for social justice – things Jordan rarely do in his career. While Jordan was honored by her beautiful style of play and fierce competition, LeBron brings a more modern model, combining personal talents with teamwork.
Of course, Reese’s point of view is not without objection. Jordan’s fans argued that MJ had perfection in decisive moments and a heritage that could hardly be overcome. But if you look at a comprehensive career, a career length, and the ability to adapt to modern basketball, LeBron James clearly has outstanding points that Jordan cannot reach. This controversy will probably never end, but with Reese and many young people, LeBron is the true “king” of NBA today.
