In the eyes of most NBA fans, Michael Jordan is the GOAT of basketball. However, there has been a renewed debate as it pertains to who truly deserves GOAT status. This is due to the fact that LeBron James has been playing so well at the age of 38. In fact, just last night, James was able to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for first all-time on the scorer's list. Overall, this is a truly incredible record and it is almost unfathomable that James was able to break it. However, he managed to do it, and he certainly deserves props for this special achievement.
Heading into his game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, James was 36 points away from the record. Most analysts had him breaking the record on Thursday. After all, this would be fitting as the Lakers were playing at home against the Bucks, who just so happen to be Kareem's first team. Instead, LeBron decided to go for it right away, and in the end, his efforts paid off. Now, LeBron can continue building upon this record for years to come.
Michael Jordan Speaks
With LeBron becoming the league's time leading scorer, Michael Jordan has decided to weigh in. According to Mike J. Babcock of TMZ, Jordan has issued a short message to LeBron. Overall, Jordan was congratulatory in his messaging and we're sure LeBron will appreciate that. “Congratulations to LeBron on this incredible achievement. It’s a testament to his hard work, longevity, and his great skill," Jordan said. MJ is one of the most competitive players in the history of the NBA, so we're sure there is a part of him that would have loved to have beaten the record. However, it is going to be LeBron's for many years to come.
At this point, the GOAT debate is just simply too close to call. If LeBron is somehow able to win two NBA titles in the next few years, then perhaps he can finally take that crown from Jordan. Otherwise, many fans will continue to give MJ the edge. No matter what, there is no doubt that both of these individuals deserve their respect as the two greatest to ever do it.
[Via]