By: Connor Robinson 1/27/25
In the world of basketball, two names are always brought up. Lebron James and Michael Jordan, but who is better? Obviously Michael Jordan. Here are some reasons why Michael Jordan still remains the G.O.A.T.
If you do not know who Michael Jordan and Lebron James are, Michael Jordan is a famous basketball player who grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina. Went to college at North Carolina University (1981-1984). And in 1984, he was a first-round, 3rd overall NBA draft pick. Selected by the Chicago Bulls, playing 15 seasons with the Bulls, and going on to win 6 NBA championships with them. Jordan tried out for his High School Varsity basketball team during his sophomore year. When he tried out, he was around 5’10” tall and small. The coach gave the spot to Jordan's close friend, who was 6’7”. After Jordan came home, sad and disappointed, His mom simply told him to get in the gym and work harder. That is what pushed Michael Jordan and made him the greatest basketball player in the world.
Lebron James is another famous basketball player who grew up in Akron, Ohio. And attended St. Mary High School, averaging 31.6 points during his senior year, and won 3 state championships. And was named Ohio Mr. Basketball three times. James was the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers. And over the years, has played for two other teams, the Miami Heat, and the Los Angeles Lakers. Lebron has also really helped the world by starting a Foundation called the James Family Foundation to support education for children.
One reason why I think Michael Jordan is better than Lebron James is because Jordan went 6-0 in NBA Finals appearances, while Lebron, reaching the finals 10 times, has a 4-6 record. Jordan’s ability to deliver in tough games is more consistent than Lebron James'. Jordan was also one of the greatest in NBA history winning 10 scoring titles while Lebron has 1.
Another reason why Jordan is the G.O.A.T. is because of his amazing defense. He was a 9-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection and won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 1988. Michael Jordan also has had way more of an impact on the game. He was well-known, especially after starring in the 1966 movie Space Jam. His basketball shoes also turned popular after he signed with Nike in 1984.
Jordan has also played more than sport. Signing for the Chicago White Sox in 1994. Leaving in March 1995, Jordan went on to become a golfer, businessman, and benefactor of several associations that fight against racism and for equality. Madeline Jackson said, “ Michael is better than Lebron James because he has more experience and he has better skill overall.” Jackson Sturgis said, “Michael is better than Lebron James because he played baseball and Lebron did not.”
In conclusion, Michael Jordan and LeBron James are both talented basketball players who had an amazing impact on the game, but the G.O.A.T debate still goes on. So you have to ask yourself, Who's the real G.O.A.T?