The NBA has seen its fair share of legends over the years, but the greatest-of-all-time debate continues to focus largely on two names: Michael Jordan and LeBron James. This time, former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Iman Shumpert—who won a championship alongside James in Cleveland—shared his thoughts on why he gives the edge to the Chicago Bulls legend.
Shumpert, who played a key role on the 2016 Cavaliers team that made history by overcoming a 3–1 deficit in the NBA Finals to defeat the Golden State Warriors, has deep respect for LeBron’s game and legacy. Still, he believes Jordan’s path to greatness carries more weight.
“I think LeBron is the greatest of all time,” Shumpert said during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show. “He is the perfect example of a basketball player; he has the physical makeup that nobody else might ever get. You want somebody that knows the playbook of all the coaches in the NBA. I’ve never seen a basketball mind get to meet up with such a dominant physical form ever before LeBron James“.
Despite that praise, Shumpert emphasized that Jordan’s journey and efficiency in reaching greatness ultimately give him the edge. “So, understanding that and understanding accolades, I completely get it,” he continued. “It’s just when you talk about how long it took to catch Jordan’s record—Jordan took a couple years off within getting this record”.
Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls looks on during an NBA game. (Tim de Frisco /Allsport/ Getty Images)
“I can’t put anybody past Michael Jordan just because I’m more ranking on winning and how I felt having a player like that on my favorite team. So, Jordan will always be my GOAT, but I totally understand the argument that happens,” he added.
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Shumpert acknowledged that his stance has sparked pushback, especially from LeBron fans. Still, he says the debate itself is a testament to the greatness of both players—and of the game.
“I think it’s even more special that I got to play with LeBron and be a part of that conversation,” he said. “People talk about it all the time, like, ‘You guys are hating on LeBron.’ Just cause they want him to be better than Jordan and everybody“.
“And I think it’s a great conversation. And I think LeBron, Kobe, Steph, all of them understand they have done their job, and we are supposed to have this barbershop talk about who is the greatest,” Shumpert concluded.
