“With all respect to LeBron and Kobe and many other players that you can argue as the GOAT. But I’ve seen Kobe Bryant when Shaq will foul out, got in foul trouble. I thought I was looking at Michael Jordan, how he took over games, and led us to victory many times when Shaq was on the bench with foul trouble and what have you. But I would say, MJ 1 and Kobe 1-A,” Horace Grant said, via Gimme The Hot Sauce Podcast.

Horace’s statements, though surprising to some, resonate well when considering Kobe Bryant’s impact on the NBA since the early 2000s. Kobe emerged as a dominant force, particularly on the Los Angeles Lakers, leading the team to five championships. His career accolades include an MVP and a Finals MVP. Even Michael Jordan admitted in an NBA 2K interview that Kobe Bryant could outplay him in a one-on-one matchup, citing Kobe’s ability to replicate his moves.

Despite this, many fans contest LeBron James’ absence from Grant’s rankings due to his significant career impact. While Kobe boasts one more championship, the Lakers’ veteran has profoundly dominated the league, securing four MVP awards and four Finals MVP awards. Additionally, he holds the all-time record for most points scored in league history, which underscores his tremendous influence. Nonetheless, his spot in the GOAT debate is still questioned by many.

Kobe Bryant’s place in the GOAT debate continues to be backed by many former NBA players

Not only Horace Grant but also other former NBA players have supported Kobe’s legacy in the GOAT debate. Shaquille O’Neal, one of his closest teammates, has decided to back the Lakers legend. In a Big Podcast episode, he stated that it is unfair to focus this conversation solely on Jordan and LeBron, leaving Bryant out of the discussion as he dominated at a level non easily reached by many, which earns him a rightful spot in the Top 3.

Dennis Rodman has also stepped up in defense of Bryant’s place in league history. During a live stream with influencer N3on, the Hall of Famer remarked, “We know who that is, Jordan all day long. … People forgot about that one guy. That one guy, that’s called Kobe Bryant. People forget about him. They talk about everybody else. They don’t talk about Kobe for some reason.”

While Kobe Bryant might not universally hold the title of NBA’s GOAT, significant endorsements, bolstered by an illustrious career, affirm his place among the game’s elite. Thus, Horace Grant’s inclusion of Bryant alongside Jordan as the greatest should not seem far-fetched. It’s not a slight against LeBron, but rather a testament to Kobe’s extraordinary impact on the sport.

Dennis Rodman has always been one of the NBA’s most unpredictable voices, and he proved that again during a live stream with popular creator NEON. Asked about the never-ending GOAT debate, Rodman doubled down on his belief that Michael Jordan is the greatest ever — and he did so with one of his trademark eccentric analogies.

“Michael Jordan was too sexy, man, when he had the ball or something like that,” Rodman said. “I mean, LeBron is like a go****n dump truck. Michael Jordan sits there dancing like barista coffee. What? And he just keeps going, making it all look so easy.”

The point was clear enough, even if the metaphor wasn’t. Jordan’s game was smooth, graceful, and artistic. He glided through defenders, pulled off moves that seemed effortless, and scored with an elegance that made “Air Jordan” one of the most fitting nicknames in sports.

LeBron James, by contrast, has always relied more on raw power. At 6-foot-9 and 260 pounds, he is a physical anomaly — a freight train in transition who bulldozes his way to the rim and finishes through contact. For more than two decades, defenders have known what was coming, yet stopping him has remained close to impossible.

Rodman’s comparison may sound harsh, but it does not dismiss LeBron’s greatness. The same “truck” has averaged at least 25 points in 20 consecutive seasons, is preparing for his 23rd year in the league, and holds the title of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with more than 40,000 points — a total that surpasses 50,000 when including the playoffs.

Jordan, on the other hand, may be the most graceful player in basketball history. His footwork, mid-range mastery, and acrobatic finishing gave the sport a kind of artistry rarely seen before or since. Every movement felt fluid, precise, and impossible to replicate.

LeBron, meanwhile, overwhelms with a different formula: size, speed, and brute force packaged together in a way basketball had never witnessed in a wing player. He may not have Jordan’s elegance, but his dominance is undeniable. In the end, Rodman’s wild metaphors simply highlight the contrast between two legends who have defined different eras of the NBA.

The Bulls captured six titles in eight years, earning two separate three-peats between 1991–93 and 1996–98. While Pippen was essential to those runs, Parish credits Dennis Rodman as the difference-maker behind Chicago’s dominance.

“Let’s not forget. Chicago wouldn’t have won s— without Dennis Rodman. I don’t care how good Michael and Scottie Pippen were, they wouldn’t have won s— without Dennis Rodman,” Parish said during an appearance on The Coach JB Show with Big Smitty. “Because Luc Longley, and that other m—, I can’t think of the other center’s name, they was just in the way”.

“If it was not for Dennis Rodman, defense and rebounding, which we all know wins games, wins championships—defensive rebounding, and keeping turnovers in check—Chicago wasn’t winning s— without Dennis Rodman,” he continued.

Before joining the Bulls, Rodman was a key part of the Detroit Pistons‘ “Bad Boys” era alongside Isiah Thomas, helping the team win back-to-back NBA titles in 1989 and 1990—eliminating Jordan and the Bulls along the way.

Rodman’s tenure with the Bulls

Rodman arrived in Chicago for the 1995–96 season, and his impact was immediate. The Bulls jumped from a 47–35 record to an NBA-best 72–10, a mark that stood until the 2015–16 Golden State Warriors surpassed it.

A two-time Defensive Player of the Year (1989–90, 1990–91), Rodman brought exactly what the Bulls needed on defense following Jordan’s return from retirement, that led Chicago to their second three-peat.

He led the NBA in rebounding for seven consecutive seasons and routinely battled the league’s most dominant big men, including Shaquille O’Neal, Karl Malone, Alonzo Mourning, and Charles Barkley.

Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan’s relationship has been notoriously turbulent in recent years. The former Bulls stars have exchanged barbs in public, fueling a feud that continues to captivate fans and pundits alike. Still, their complicated history doesn’t erase the bond they once shared during the franchise’s golden era. At least back in 2010, the respect was mutual—and public.

That year, Pippen was inducted into the Hall of Fame and selected Jordan, who had been inducted the year prior, to formally present him. The gesture reflected the significance of their shared journey and was a continuation of a Hall of Fame tradition in which past legends present new inductees. It was a moment of reverence, not rivalry—fitting for a duo that won six NBA titles together.

“I can’t think of a better person to do it,” Pippen said at the time, via ESPN. “Michael is someone I shared my career with, accomplishing most of what I have accomplished thus far.” Their paths were intertwined, and for one evening in Springfield, Massachusetts, the narrative turned from division to tribute.

Pippen’s heartfelt words for Jordan

Despite the tension that has developed in recent years, Pippen’s speech that night revealed the deep respect he once held for Jordan. Their legacy wasn’t just about championships and accolades. It was about two competitors pushing each other to greatness and forming one of the most iconic partnerships in NBA history.

“Michael was a great teammate, teacher, and admirer,” Pippen said during his speech. “I’m excited to have an opportunity to be the first person that he has presented into the Hall of Fame. I figure if anyone deserves to be on the stage with me, it’s him.”

Pippen continued, “What an honor it is for me as a basketball player to have the all-time great presenting me here tonight. It was so valuable to me as a player to see someone who had the same desire, determination, passion, and love for the game.” He concluded his remarks with a message that still resonates with Bulls fans. “MJ, you have touched so many people’s lives, but none like mine. Thank you for being the best teammate. I will always cherish that experience and our relationship forever.”

Why not Dennis Rodman?

While Pippen and Rodman shared three championships with the Bulls, their relationship was more functional than sentimental. Before teaming up in Chicago, they had been fierce rivals—most notably during Rodman’s time with the Detroit Pistons. Pippen wasn’t initially thrilled when the Bulls acquired the controversial forward, but he eventually came to respect Rodman’s value on the court.

Rodman’s relentless defense and rebounding were crucial to the Bulls’ second three-peat, but the emotional connection between Pippen and Jordan was on another level. For Pippen, the Hall of Fame moment was personal, not just professional. And in that context, there was no other choice. It had to be Jordan.

Over his illustrious career, Harper collected five NBA Championship rings, three with the Bulls and two more with the Lakers, granting him the rare privilege of having competed alongside some of the greatest players in NBA history like Kobe or O’Neal. It’s this unique perspective that empowers him to deliver insights into discussions surrounding the all-time greats.

Recently, Harper opted not to join the perennial “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) debate. Instead, he shared his personal starting five drawn from the array of Hall-of-Fame-caliber teammates, like Pippen or Rodman, he played with during his 15-year NBA career. During a recent conversation with The Makeshift Project on Instagram, Harper revealed his all-time greatest teammates lineup.

Given his illustrious career and the iconic figures he shared the court with, determining his all-time starting five might seem straightforward. Unsurprisingly, the lineup boasts some of basketball’s brightest stars, like Rodman or O’Neal, highlighting Harper’s legendary cohorts.

All-time teammate starting five:

• Point Guard (PG): Scottie Pippen
• Shooting Guard (SG): Kobe Bryant
• Small Forward (SF): Michael Jordan
• Power Forward (PF): Dennis Rodman
• Center (C): Shaquille O’Neal

Harper’s choice for Sixth Man: Toni Kukoc

When asked about his choice for the sixth man in an all-time starting lineup, Harper didn’t hesitate to highlight a name less frequently mentioned by former players but worthy of Hall of Fame recognition: Toni Kukoc.

Notably, Kukoc was awarded the Sixth Man of the Year during the 1995-1996 season as part of the Chicago Bulls’ championship team. Sporting the number 7 jersey, the Croatian standout made history with his remarkable contributions to the Bulls’ three-peat triumphs from 1996 to 1998. Although he started in only 22 of the 45 playoff games during those years, his impact was crucial to securing the championship titles.

Harper’s head coach selection: Phil Jackson

Reflecting on his illustrious career with the Bulls, achieving a three-peat, and subsequent success with the Lakers, securing two consecutive titles, Harper confidently chose Phil Jackson as the head coach for his dream team.

Jackson’s unparalleled influence in the NBA has solidified his reputation, with countless former players attesting to his standing as the greatest coach in NBA history.

In a 2023 interview, Thomas named his top three defenders of all time, including two former Chicago Bulls stars and one of the greatest two-way centers in league history. While he claimed he wasn’t ranking them, Thomas has previously gone on record stating that Scottie Pippen tops his list as the best defender in NBA history, with Dennis Rodman coming in second.

“As a defender, he doesn’t get enough credit,” Thomas said on the ALL THE SMOKE podcast. “When we talk about the greatest and best defenders that have ever played in the NBA, Chicago had two of them — Rodman and Scottie Pippen.”

“Scottie was different,” Thomas continued. “At his best, I may have to say that he and Rodman were the one-two best defenders to ever play the game. I want to give him his respect and his props. And then, as a facilitator, Scottie — he was the real deal.”

Thomas vs Pippen: A storied rivalry

The rivalry between Isiah Thomas and Scottie Pippen took shape in the late 1980s, when the Detroit Pistons and Chicago Bulls became perennial Eastern Conference contenders. As the fiery leader of the Pistons, Thomas personified the physical, confrontational style of basketball that defined the era and often frustrated the rising Bulls, led by Michael Jordan and supported by a maturing Pippen.

Those postseason battles were nothing short of legendary. Detroit’s “Jordan Rules” didn’t just target Jordan—they also tested Pippen’s resilience. The Bulls forward, still emerging as a star, took repeated hits from Detroit’s bruising defense, both physically and psychologically. Thomas, never shy in front of a mic, frequently questioned Pippen’s toughness and leadership compared to Jordan, fueling a personal and professional feud that has lingered long after their careers ended.

Rodman’s complex connection with Thomas

Dennis Rodman’s relationship with Thomas was more layered. Originally teammates on the Pistons, the two helped shape Detroit’s identity as the NBA’s most feared defensive unit. Rodman’s energy, versatility, and defensive prowess complemented Thomas’s leadership during their back-to-back title runs in 1989 and 1990.

However, Rodman’s eventual move to the Bulls in the mid-1990s complicated their legacy. By joining Chicago — the very franchise Detroit had built its identity around defeating — Rodman became part of the dynasty the Pistons once stood against. The dynamic shifted, and while mutual respect remained, the symbolism of Rodman wearing a Bulls jersey stung for many Pistons loyalists, including Thomas.

More than a rivalry — a cultural divide

Despite moments of mutual respect among all three players, personal pride and competitive fire have long fueled the tension between Thomas, Pippen, and Rodman. For Thomas, the Pistons’ legacy — one forged in sweat, defense, and defiance — is too often overlooked in favor of the flashier narratives surrounding the Bulls dynasty. He continues to be a vocal advocate for what Detroit represented during its golden years.

Their rivalry was more than physical — it was deeply cultural and symbolic. It wasn’t just about winning games; it was about defining eras, identities, and ultimately, greatness. And for Isiah Thomas, those matchups — and those defenders — are etched into NBA history with the intensity they brought to every possession.

“If you look at Dennis (Rodman) and the way he shoots and carries himself on the offensive end, he has fundamentals. He just chooses not to use them. If Orlando feels Dennis’ offense is not going to hurt them, great. We’ll just keep pushing him to give us that offensive support,” Jordan said in 1996, via the Chicago Tribune.

Although Dennis Rodman was never known for his scoring, his impact on the game went far beyond the box score. In the 1996 NBA Eastern Conference Finals, he stepped up offensively and became the Bulls’ third-leading scorer. He averaged 11.6 points per game during the series. Moreover, he shot an efficient 53.3 percent from the field. He also converted 60.9 percent of his free throws, which marked a solid improvement for him.

Not only did Michael Jordan recognize his offensive talent, but Scottie Pippen also gave him credit without hesitation. “When he’s a scorer, and he’s effective, you have to keep an eye on him…(Opponents) aren’t even looking for Dennis to score. It’s easier for us to find him around the basket when you know he’s conscious of wanting to score. When he’s not looking to score, you’re kind of iffy about throwing the ball to him,” affirmed Pippen in 1997, via The Chicago Tribune.

Dennis Rodman opens up about his relationship with Michael Jordan during the Bulls era

It is no secret that Dennis Rodman and Michael Jordan have completely different personalities. Rodman is loud, eccentric, and unpredictable. Jordan, on the other hand, is quiet, focused, and disciplined. In 2023, Rodman admitted he never spoke off the court with Michael or Scottie Pippen. He explained that the only thing that mattered to him was showing up, doing his job, and winning. That was his only focus.

Still, Jordan had no problem with Rodman as a teammate. In a 1996 interview, he addressed Rodman’s behavior. “He’s gonna go wacko every now and then. We’ve come to live with that. We’ve come to accept that. But you can’t find another player on the basketball court that works just as hard as Dennis Rodman. Gives 110%, dives at loose balls even if he can’t get them. That’s Dennis Rodman. So I don’t have a problem with Dennis, and I don’t think Phil does.”

Although their personalities clashed, they made it work. Together, they built one of the most dominant teams of the era. More importantly, they did not need a personal bond to win. Their shared obsession with victory kept them aligned. Because of that, they led the Bulls to three straight championships. When it counted most, they delivered. And they did it without needing to speak off the court.

“It’s very easy when they define greatness…Michael Jordan did it when it was tough. What did he do? He led the league in scoring 10 years. That was hard back then, now it’s easy,” Rodman said in 2017, via UPI. The Bulls legend led the league in scoring during one of the most competitive eras in NBA history. By contrast, LeBron has topped the scoring charts just once, in the 2007-08 season.

Despite not leading the league in scoring every year, he holds the all-time scoring record with 42,184 points. He combines elite scoring efficiency with unmatched durability and physical dominance. Beyond points, he impacts the game through rebounds, assists, and leadership. Even at age 40, he remains one of the league’s most complete and influential players.

Not everything is criticism, as Dennis Rodman acknowledged something LeBron achieved that Michael Jordan did not. “You know what, LeBron is doing one thing that I always said that Michael Jordan never did…Never rested. He played every game. He played every game. LeBron has the position to do this now because they need him. The league needs him and that’s why he’s doing all this crazy,” affirmed Rodman on Reiter Than You show.

Who could stop LeBron James if he had played in the 1990s? Dennis Rodman gives an unfiltered answer

Defending in the NBA has become much tougher in recent years. Changes to league rules have played a major role. Several former players, including Shaquille O’Neal, share this belief. They argue that defenders can no longer use physicality without risking a foul. As a result, defense has shifted from physicality to tactics. Players now rely more on positioning, timing, and anticipation.

This shift has also fueled comparisons between eras. In a 2019 interview with Overtime, Dennis Rodman was asked how LeBron James would fare in his era. His answer was even more direct and brutally honest.

“Do you know who can lock up LeBron? Me, Mike and Scottie could. Scottie Pippen could shut his f******g a** down quick before I get to him. LeBron is so easy to play. He is so f****g easy to play. He doesn’t have any moves. His game is so simple, he is just big. The only thing he has is that he is 6’8″ and 260 pounds, and I’ve guarded guys bigger than him,” Rodman said.

Among the most talked-about figures during Jackson’s tenure with the Bulls was Rodman. Known for his eccentric behavior and outspoken personality, Rodman made headlines both on and off the court. His unique way of expressing himself often clashed with NBA norms, presenting a challenge Jackson had to navigate when Rodman joined the team.

Reflecting on that period, Jackson revealed an unexpected insight about Rodman‘s arrival in Chicago. Despite Rodman’s stellar performances with the Detroit Pistons and San Antonio Spurs, his behavior raised concerns at the time.

In the 1997 documentary Reflections of a Dynasty, which featured interviews with Jordan and Pippen, Jackson shared that ahead of the 1995–96 season, he compiled a secret list of seven players he believed could help the Bulls win another championship, Rodman included.

“I put down on paper seven guys who I thought could help us out. He (Rodman) was the seventh at the bottom of that list,” Jackson recalled in 1997, reflecting on one of the most dominant dynasties in NBA history.

Why Jackson put Rodman last on his list

Rodman’s arrival in Chicago generated mixed reactions among fans. Known as much for his controversial behavior as his on-court talent, Rodman carried a reputation that gave many, Jackson included, reason for pause.

“It had nothing to do with his talent,” Jackson clarified, speaking about the list he compiled to strengthen the Bulls ahead of the 1995-96 season. “I didn’t have anything against Dennis. It was simply because of what he brings with him.” Despite those concerns, Jackson would later call Rodman’s signing one of the best decisions of his Bulls tenure.

Jackson also admitted that the trade only went through because it was kept quiet at first. He believed Jordan and Pippen might have opposed it if consulted early. “We would have never made the move without checking first with Scottie [Pippen] and Michael [Jordan],” he said.

How Rodman adjusted to the Bulls

With superstars like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen already leading the team, Rodman’s integration into the locker room was no small feat. But Jackson understood what was needed.

“We could handle a distraction and a personality like Dennis,” he said. Rodman proved his value quickly, leading the team with 14.9 rebounds per game in his first season in Chicago.

Rodman’s impact on the Bulls

In just three seasons with the Bulls, Rodman left a lasting legacy. He led the team, and the league, in rebounding during each of his three years in Chicago: 1995-96: 14.9 RPG; 1996-97: 16.7 RPG; and 1997-98: 15.0 RPG.

Rodman played a crucial role in Chicago’s second three-peat, helping the Bulls win NBA titles in 1996, 1997, and 1998. His defensive presence and dominance on the boards were instrumental to the team’s success.

During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, James reflected on how players from previous eras have downplayed his ability to succeed in their time. Confident in his skills, the Lakers star dismissed the criticism and asserted his versatility as a player.

“Come on… I would be able to play in any era,” James stated. “It’s funny, you hear some of the older guys like, ‘LeBron James couldn’t play in this era.’ I think I saw Dennis Rodman say that once. He was like, ‘LeBron James ain’t skilled enough. Not big enough, not strong enough.’ I’m like, ‘Okay’”.

LeBron, the NBA‘s all-time leading scorer, is well-known for using his physical attributes—size, speed, and strength—to dominate the court. Considering the physicality that defined Rodman’s prime era with the Chicago Bulls, James made it clear that he would have excelled in any generation.

What did Dennis Rodman say about LeBron?

In a 2019 interview with Overtime, Rodman confidently stated that he, Michael Jordan, and Scottie Pippen would have had no trouble shutting down LeBron on the court.

“You know who could lock up LeBron? Me, Mike, and Scottie could. F— yeah. I would have locked his a— up. LeBron is so easy to play. He’s so f— easy to play, he don’t have any moves,” Rodman declared.

Rodman elaborated that James’ game is simplistic and reliant on a single move. “Only move he has is streak down the line,” he continued. “He ain’t got no moves. Where is he going? Where is he going that’s quick? Scottie Pippen would have shut his f— a— down quick before I get to him”.

The five-time NBA champion also dismissed James’ size as a factor, pointing out that he had faced bigger, stronger opponents throughout his career. “His game is too simple, he’s just big. I’m 260 and 6’8” or 6’9”, and that’s the only thing he’s got, pretty much. I played against guys 7-foot, 300, so it doesn’t really matter,” Rodman added.

Rodman’s career was often seen as tumultuous, with his wild partying and high-profile relationships frequently overshadowing his basketball achievements. However, when he stepped onto the court, he delivered consistently outstanding performances that played a key role in helping the Bulls, alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, secure multiple championships for the franchise.

Rodman’s contributions to the NBA are undeniable, which is why when he reflects on his career, it’s worth paying attention. A notable example came during an interview with USA Today in 2019, where he shared his thoughts on his time with the Spurs back in 1993.

“It could have worked, but it didn’t. I’m thinking to myself, thank God we didn’t win a championship in San Antonio. I thank my lucky stars. Because if I had won a championship with San Antonio, I still would have been there,” Rodman said.

Rodman’s most memorable career moment

After struggling to find the right fit in the NBA following his time with the Chicago Bulls, Rodman reflected on his time with the Spurs. Despite a rocky two-year stint with the franchise, Rodman considers his departure from the Spurs as a pivotal moment in his career.

“I never would have made it to the Chicago Bulls, and Chicago wouldn’t have won those three championships. So, it’s a blessing in disguise that I left the Spurs,” Rodman shared.

Rodman’s journey: From San Antonio to championship glory

Rodman’s move from the Spurs marked the beginning of not only his best performances on the court but also his rise to fame for his controversial off-court persona. While winning championships with the Bulls, he proved that, despite his eccentric appearance, think wild hair and flamboyant style, being a true champion is about talent, not the public image.

Rodman opens up about his relationship with Gregg Popovich

Rodman also opened up about his strained relationship with Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, revealing the tension that existed during his time in San Antonio. According to Rodman, Popovich’s disdain for him was rooted in their differences, with Rodman’s personality clashing with the team’s values at the time.

“He (Popovich) hated me, he hated me, he hated my guts because I wasn’t a Bible guy. They looked at me like I’m the devil. Then I started acting out again because they didn’t want me here,” Rodman said, reflecting on how he was perceived by the people in San Antonio.