The age-old debate of LeBron James versus Michael Jordan has been reignited, this time by longtime NBA player and former Slam Dunk Contest winner, Terrence Ross. While everyone—whether they’re players, analysts, or fans—has an opinion on who the true GOAT is, Ross has officially thrown his weight behind LeBron James.
During a live Twitch stream, Ross was asked who deserved the Olympics MVP more: LeBron James or Stephen Curry. Without hesitation, Ross gave the nod to LeBron.
“LeBron was the best player in the entire Olympics, bro,” Ross said. “Curry did his thing in the last two games, shooting the lights out like always, but LeBron carried the team the whole way to the gold. Without LeBron, Curry might not even have gotten those shots off.”
But Ross didn’t stop there. He went on to explain why, in his eyes, LeBron surpasses Jordan for the GOAT title. He pointed to LeBron’s unparalleled longevity and consistency, which he believes sets him apart from Jordan’s career arc.
“To me now, LeBron’s the GOAT. I don’t know how you put Jordan over him,” Ross continued. “If Jordan had done what he did for 20 years, I’d say sure. But LeBron’s longevity speaks for itself. Jordan played twice, came back twice, and while his first comeback was legendary with a three-peat, his second return wasn’t the same.”
Ross emphasized how LeBron has maintained peak performance throughout his 20-plus years in the league. “LeBron’s been at the top his entire career. He’s older now, but still as effective as ever.”
Entering his 22nd consecutive NBA season, LeBron James has been a consistent force in the league since his Rookie of the Year campaign and has been an All-Star for two decades straight. For Ross, the quality of competition LeBron has faced throughout his career further solidifies his GOAT status.
“The competition LeBron has faced is, to me, more impressive than what Jordan went up against. If we’re being honest, it’s harder now,” Ross added.
While the debate rages on, it’s clear that both LeBron James and Michael Jordan have left an indelible mark on the game of basketball. Whether you’re Team LeBron or Team Jordan, both legends deserve to be celebrated for their incredible contributions to the sport
