LeBron James reflected on the GOAT debate, praising Michael Jordan while also highlighting the differences in their games. He called himself a “one of one” player, defended his legacy, and pushed back on criticism surrounding his NBA Finals record.
LeBron James once again addressed the long-running GOAT debate, opening up about his respect for Michael Jordan while also defending his own legacy as his career nears its final stage
In a wide-ranging interview with ESPN, James made it clear that he never tried to mirror Jordan’s game, pointing to their different styles on the court.
“I never have compared myself to MJ because our games are totally different,” James said. “I have been a point-forward/forward-point my whole life. I have always looked for the pass. MJ kind of looked for the shot. Not kind of, he did. He looked for the shot.
“There are a lot of things where I would say my game is a lot different and a little better than his, but s**t, he was f***ing great. We’re both great. We’re both great basketball players.”
Still, the Los Angeles Lakers star did not hide his admiration for Jordan, especially when it comes to specific skills.
“There are a lot of things that MJ did better than I do,” he explained. “And I think there are some things that I do better than him. That’s just how the game goes. There’s a lot of things that I can say in particular. You already know how this conversation is going to be [misinterpreted] by people, man.”
“I think I am one of one. I think the way I play the game, I am a one-of-one player. And MJ, as well. A f***ing unbelievable basketball player. I think his midrange jump shot was unbelievable. He did so many things great. I grew up f***ing analyzing everything that he did, how he could get to his spot and rise up above everybody. Obviously, his post game was elite. His will to win. I think that is a trait that we all know and that we all wanted to be like. His determination to win,” LeBron concluded.