Ever since the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> became one of the signature names in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>, they’ve had nothing but the best players in the league, with legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant</a>, and now LeBron James.



That’s why having your jersey number retired by the Lakers is one of the greatest honors any NBA player could ask for and why the fans only consider what you’ve done as a Laker — not in your career — for that distinction.



With that in mind, former NBA champion Robert Horry believes it would be unfair for the Lakers to retire <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron’s</a> number while Michael Cooper, an integral part of the Showtime dynasty, still doesn’t have his.



<h2>Robert Horry Says Lakers Can’t Retire LeBron’s Number</h2>



“I base everything off Michael Cooper,” Horry said in his podcast. “You know, it is just so hard for me when you retire a guy’s number and you don’t retire Michael Cooper’s number. And it is just, to me, it don’t… nobody should go before him. You know, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, help win championships. He always guarded the people that Magic couldn’t.”



“It’s just so many things that, you know, and that goes to show you have people in the league and NBA and across,” he added. “They don’t appreciate defense unless you’re Ben Wallace or Dennis Rodman. And I just think that if you retire LeBron’s jersey, you gotta retire Michael Cooper’s ‘cause he’s just a Laker legend to me.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/dillon-brooks-doesnt-back-down-from-beef-with-lebron-james-in-lakers-series-20230824-BUS-52083.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230824_BUS_52083_DILLON-BROOKS.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Dillon Brooks defended his comments against LeBron James in the playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers when he played for the Memphis Grizzlies.
" title="Dillon Brooks Doesn’t Back Down from Beef with LeBron James in Lakers’ Series" publication_id="BUS#20230824#BUS#52083"></div>


At the end of the day, chances are the Lakers will still retire LeBron’s number for P.R. reasons. But truth be told, as good as he’s been for them, he hasn’t done enough as a Laker to get that honor, and definitely not as much as Cooper, who won five rings in L.A.

Robert Horry explains why the Lakers can't retire LeBron's number

Robert Horry explains why the Lakers can't retire LeBron's number - Bolavip US

thumbnail

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-and-bronny-james-take-big-step-after-cardiac-arrest-20230809-BUS-43431.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230809_BUS_43431_Bronny-James.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Following his scary incident, Bronny and LeBron James are going to great lengths to find some answers.
" title="LeBron and Bronny James take big step after cardiac arrest" publication_id="BUS#20230809#BUS#43431"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-son-bronny-reappears-after-cardiac-arrest-20230729-BUS-37667.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230729_BUS_37667_bronnyjames.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="In a very emotional sequence, Bronny James reappeared publicly after suffering a cardiac arrest.
" title="Bronny James goes viral with video after cardiac arrest" publication_id="BUS#20230729#BUS#37667"></div>


In a development that provides clarity, the cause behind <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bronny-james">Bronny James</a>‘ sudden cardiac arrest, which took place late last month, has been disclosed. The incident rocked the basketball world as it unfolded during the preparations for his upcoming debut with the USC Trojans.



Bronny, the son of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Lakers</a> superstar <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>, experienced the alarming cardiac event on July 24 while in practice. Notably, the incident occurred at the venue where the Trojans play and practice, creating an immediate shock in the sports community.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/report-lebron-james-devastated-over-bronnys-career-threatening-incident-20230726-BUS-35676.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230726_BUS_35676_LEBRON-JAMES-10.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="According to an exclusive report by the Daily Mail, LeBron James is completely devastated over Bronny&apos;s cardiac arrest.
" title="Report: LeBron James &apos;devastated&apos; over Bronny&apos;s career-threatening incident" publication_id="BUS#20230726#BUS#35676"></div>


With the season scheduled to commence later this year, the untimely health setback has cast a shadow over Bronny’s future as a player. The latest update on his condition was shared by his own side.



<h2>The Cause of Bronny James’ Sudden Cardiac Arrest</h2>



The Trojans’ campaign was expected to be a significant moment for Bronny, but the cardiac arrest has obligated him to pause his plans. Despite there is speculation about his eligibility for the 2024 NBA draft, his health remains as the most important thing. Recently, a spokesperson of the James family gave an update as to what was the cause of the incident.



“After a comprehensive initial evaluation at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center led by Dr. Merije Chukumerije and follow-up evaluations at the Mayo Clinic led by Dr. Michael J. Ackerman and Atlantic Health/Morristown Medical Center led by Dr. Matthew W. Martinez, the probable cause of Mr. James’ sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) has been identified.”



This valuable communication then elaborated on the underlying cause: “It is an anatomically and functionally significant Congenital Heart Defect which can and will be treated. We are very confident in Bronny’s full recovery and return to basketball in the very near future. We will continue to provide updates to media and respectfully reiterate the family’s request for privacy.”



<h2>How Old Is Bronny James?</h2>



Bronny James, LeBron’s oldest son, is 18 years old.

Bronny James’ Sudden Cardiac Arrest Cause: What Happened to LeBron's Son?

LeBron and Bronny James take big step after cardiac arrest

Bronny James goes viral with video after cardiac arrest

The Cause of Bronny James’ Sudden Cardiac Arrest - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/austin-reaves-is-already-recruiting-stars-team-usa-stars-to-join-lakers-20230823-BUS-51011.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230823_BUS_51011_Austin-Reaves-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="It&apos;s still too early, but Austin Reaves is already doing his homework for the Los Angeles Lakers.
" title="Austin Reaves is already recruiting Team USA stars to join Lakers" publication_id="BUS#20230823#BUS#51011"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-fans-will-not-like-stephen-currys-take-on-magic-johnson-20230822-BUS-50498.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230822_BUS_50498_Stephen-Curry-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="If some Lakers fans didn&apos;t care for Stephen Curry already, they will definitely hate him after his latest take on Magic Johnson.
" title="Lakers fans will not like Stephen Curry&apos;s take on Magic Johnson" publication_id="BUS#20230822#BUS#50498"></div>


Dillon Brooks isn’t going to back down easily on the court. However, he didn’t do so outside of it either when it referred to his words aimed at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> in the playoff series against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a>.



Brooks played until last season for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies">Memphis Grizzlies</a>, but his tenure with the team ended poorly because of the postseason. Memphis were the second seed in the Western Conference, setting an intriguing matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/kobe-bryants-priceless-advice-for-single-wealthy-nba-players-20230821-BUS-50081.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230821_BUS_50081_Kobe-Bryant.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant knew one thing or two about gold-diggrs.
" title="Kobe Bryant&apos;s priceless advice for single, wealthy NBA players" publication_id="BUS#20230821#BUS#50081"></div>


Despite being ranked lower in the regular season, a team that has LeBron should always be considered dangerous. The problem was not that the Lakers eliminated the Grizzlies six games. It was Brooks’ decision to target the King what was seen as a huge mistake.



<h2>Dillon Brooks Doubles on the LeBron James Controversy</h2>



Brooks is certain that he was unfairly criticized for the Memphis Grizzlies’ exit in the first round of the playoffs against the Lakers. It’s not right to make one player take the full blame, but his performance was definitely not good enough to defeat Los Angeles.



“I felt like I always had him. I feel like that series was thrown upon me cause of the words that I say. But I’ve been saying things all year, and we won 50 games,” Brooks told Arash Madani of Sportsnet about his sayings towards LeBron during that series.



In the end, it was Brook’s incapability of back his talk with high level of play what ultimately led the Grizzlies to part ways with the player. He finished that series with a rather disappointing shot percentage of 31.2, so the team chose to not bring him back for another season.



<h2>What Team Does Dillon Brooks Play For?</h2>



Dillon Brooks plays for the Houston Rockets after signing a four-year contract worth $86 million.

Dillon Brooks Doesn’t Back Down from Beef with LeBron James

Austin Reaves is already recruiting Team USA stars to join Lakers

Lakers fans will not like Stephen Curry's take on Magic Johnson

Dillon Brooks Doesn’t Back from LeBron James' Comments - Bolavip US

Dillon Brooks Doesn’t Back Down from Beef with LeBron James in Lakers’ Series

As great a player as he is,<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James</a> has always had — and will forever have — his fair share of detractors. And that includes <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/utah-jazz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utah Jazz</a> legend, John Stockton.



Stockton has become a bit infamous in NBA circles lately. His words on vaccination and whatnot have driven some younger fans away, regardless of his undeniable greatness on the court.



And now, L<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">os Angeles Lakers</a> fans might have another reason to dislike him, as he recently ripped LeBron for having so much influence in the team’s decision-making.



<h2>John Stockton Wouldn’t Want To Be Teammates With LeBron</h2>



“I don’t know what it’s like to sit in that front office and have things dictating to you like a plan, and it appears LeBron is,” Stockton said on the DNP-CD podcast.



“I don’t know for sure that he is, but it’d be maddening as a teammate to know that you can be expendable for one of his guys that he thinks he needs to play with. The iffiness it causes with the team, the iffiness that it causes upstairs,” Stockton added.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/gilbert-arenas-explains-why-lebron-james-is-the-goat-point-guard-20230824-BUS-51795.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230824_BUS_51795_LeBron-James-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas believes Magic Johnson isn&apos;t a true point guard, and used LeBron James as an example to prove his point.
" title="Gilbert Arenas explains why LeBron James is the GOAT point guard" publication_id="BUS#20230824#BUS#51795"></div>


Even so, he might have a valid point right here. James’ leverage with his teams has often led to countless trades and roster overhauls, and that has to worry you if you’re one of his teammates.

John Stockton puts LeBron James on blast over team influence

John Stockton puts LeBron James on blast over team influence - Bolavip US

For most of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>history, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> legend Magic Johnson has been considered the undisputed best point guard of all time. Now, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry</a> is challenging that distinction.



However, Gilbert Arenas believes Magic wasn’t even a true point guard. He pointed out the fact that he played SG before the Lakers traded Norm Nixon, and he was a unique kind of player.



Per Arenas, if people were to consider Johnson a point guard, then they should also put <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> in that same category, as they’re both forwards who take the ball up the court. Should that be the case, then James should be the best PG ever, claims Arenas.



<h2>Gilbert Arenas Says LeBron James Is The Best Point Guard Ever</h2>



“If you’re going to use Magic as the best point guard, I’m going to use LeBron,” Arenas said on his show. “Now LeBron is the No. 1 point guard. They’re gonna say, ‘Oh LeBron’s not a point guard. He’s led his team in assists every f***ing year.”



“He has to be the best point guard of all time. LeBron was 2.0 of Magic. Coming into the NBA, he was Magic Johnson with Michael Jordan’s jumping ability. If you’re gonna use Magic as a point guard, you have to throw out LeBron as the greatest ever,” added Arenas.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-michael-jordan-reacts-to-stephen-curry-calling-himself-best-point-guard-ever-20230823-BUS-51514.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230823_BUS_51514_Stephen-Curry-March-2022.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Stephen Curry recently made some noise by declaring himself the best point guard ever over Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan reportedly had something to say about it.
" title="NBA Rumors: Michael Jordan reacts to Stephen Curry calling himself best point guard ever" publication_id="BUS#20230823#BUS#51514"></div>


If you look at it that way, then he has a valid point. But then, we need to define the criteria of what a true point guard is and whether LeBron James would qualify as one.

Gilbert Arenas explains why LeBron James is the GOAT point guard

Gilbert Arenas explains why LeBron James is the GOAT point guard - Bolavip US

When <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> joined the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miami Heat</a>, fans complained about the NBA being broken and whatnot, similar to what happened with Kevin Durant and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors.</a>



Having James teaming up with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh gave them the biggest juggernaut in the Association, which is why some people feel like they underachieved by winning ‘just’ two rings.



Even so, those two rings were LeBron’s first two<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> championships. That’s why Stephen A. Smith was shocked when he wasn’t in attendance at Dwyane Wade’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Rips LeBron For Skipping Wade’s HoF Ceremony</h2>



“I was shocked, of all people, that LeBron was not there,” Smith said on his podcast. “Somebody’s got to say it, so I’m gonna say it.”



“To me, the last person who should have missed Wade’s induction into the Hall of Fame was LeBron James,” Smith continued. “LeBron James, one could easily argue, wouldn’t even know what it’s like to be a champion had it not been for Dwyane Wade.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/stephen-a-smith-explains-why-lebron-james-will-never-be-as-good-as-michael-jordan-20230817-BUS-47968.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230817_BUS_47968_Stephen-A.-Smith-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="As much respect as he has for LeBron James, Stephen A. Smith will always have Michael Jordan ranked higher.
" title="Stephen A. Smith explains why LeBron James will never be as good as Michael Jordan" publication_id="BUS#20230817#BUS#47968"></div>


Truth be told, Wade was already a champion before playing with LeBron, and Bron struggled mightily in the NBA Finals twice before — once with him, once without him — so Smith has a valid point. James must’ve had a valid reason to skip it, though.

Stephen A. Smith destroys LeBron James with hot Dwyane Wade take

Stephen A. Smith destroys LeBron James with hot Dwyane Wade take - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> has made such an impact on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> that he drew comparisons with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a>, a legend who set the bar incredibly high for the rest. Of course, one of the most popular questions within the basketball community is whether The King or MJ is the GOAT.



Jordan made a strong case to be considered the best to ever play the game during his successful stint with the Chicago Bulls in the 90s, but the outlook hasn’t been the same since LeBron stepped in.



Former NBA coach Stan Van Gundy had a surprising take on this debate. While many believe Jordan had a better career than LeBron, but James was a better player, Van Gundy thinks it’s the other way around.



<h2>Who has more rings, Michael Jordan or LeBron James?</h2>



Michael Jordan has won six NBA championships, two more than LeBron James, who has so far collected four rings.



“It’s fine if you want to tell me that Michael Jordan was a better basketball player than LeBron James, that’s fine,” Van Gundy said. “You can make a case for that. What you can’t make a case for is that Michael Jordan had a better career than LeBron James. You can’t make a case for that.“


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/michael-jordan-revealed-the-ultimate-trick-to-learn-how-to-shoot-20230821-BUS-50099.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230821_BUS_50099_Michael-Jordan.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan once shared a savvy trick to become a better shooter.
" title="Michael Jordan revealed the ultimate trick to learn how to shoot" publication_id="BUS#20230821#BUS#50099"></div>


MJ won all his six Finals with the Bulls, while The King won titles with three different teams (Heat, Cavaliers, Lakers) and lost six Finals. Jordan also has more MVP and Finals MVP awards, but Van Gundy prefers James’ résumé.

Former NBA coach makes bold take on LeBron James-MJ debate

Ex-NBA coach claims LeBron James had a better career than Michael Jordan - Bolavip US

Former NBA coach claims LeBron James had a better career than Michael Jordan

Some <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> fans never truly embraced <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a>. They felt like rooting for The King was like betraying their allegiance to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant</a>, even though they were never actually rivals.



Diehard Kobe fans wouldn’t give James his flowers, and some even vandalized his murals when he first arrived in Southern California. And while that’s no longer the case for the most part, some will never change his mind.



That’s why a little portion of Lakers fans might not be thrilled to know that Austin Reaves has changed his mind, stating that he considered LeBron to be the greatest player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history.



<h2>Austin Reaves Makes GOAT Case For LeBron James</h2>



“I would start off by saying in my personal opinion, even being a Kobe guy, he is the greatest player to ever play,” Reaves said. “How good he is at all facets of the game. I don’t think anybody’s been that good at everything… Not even basketball-wise.”



“I can pick up the phone and call him whenever… so that’s super cool… On the court, that’s really where it all started,” added Reaves. “We connected early on an IQ level, just playing the game the right way.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/austin-reaves-reveals-the-lakers-goal-for-the-season-20230816-BUS-47056.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230816_BUS_47056_Austin-Reaves-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The Los Angeles Lakers fell short of their goal last season, and they don&apos;t want to happen again.
" title="Austin Reaves reveals the Lakers goal for the season" publication_id="BUS#20230816#BUS#47056"></div>


Of course, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, and James has more than enough going on to be considered the best ever. But fans are often irrational, and some may not like this at all.

Some Lakers fans won't like Austin Reaves' take on LeBron James

Some Lakers fans won't like Austin Reaves' take on LeBron James - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a> has been the biggest inspiration to most <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> players that came after him. Even <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> admittedly dreamed of being as good as the Chicago Bulls legend.



For years, Jordan’s GOAT status was undisputed and not even debated. He was so obviously superior to every single one of his peers that no one dared to even make it a conversation.



That’s why ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith will always have Jordan ranked higher than the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers’ </a>star, who hasn’t been the consensus best player on Earth every year.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Makes GOAT Case For Michael Jordan</h2>



“During the LeBron James era, there were debates as to whether or not he was the best in the world,” Smith said on his podcast. “When Michael Jordan was playing there was never a debate ever as to who was the best in the world.”



“Even with Larry Bird or Magic Johnson winning the championship, it was clear that Michael Jordan was the best player in the world,” Smith added. “Larry Bird called him God.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/stephen-a-smith-rips-lebron-james-agent-over-alleged-disrespect-20230815-BUS-46568.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230815_BUS_46568_Stephen-A.-Smith-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Stephen A. Smith wasn&apos;t going to feel intimidated by Rich Paul, and he made it loud and clear.
" title="Stephen A. Smith rips LeBron James&apos; agent over alleged disrespect" publication_id="BUS#20230815#BUS#46568"></div>


Of course, everybody’s entitled to their opinion, and there should be no shame in being No. 2 to the great Michael Jordan, but these comments will most likely reignite this never-ending debate.

Stephen A. Smith explains why LeBron James will never be as good as Michael Jordan

Stephen A. Smith explains why LeBron James will never be as good as Michael Jordan - Bolavip US

It’s a quiet moment in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> offseason, which is why some of the topics that come to surface in the basketball world are related to who’s the GOAT or the best player nowadays. Unsurprisingly, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a> are always mentioned in these conversations.



The King is often compared to Michael Jordan in the never-ending debate on who’s the greatest player of all time. But people also bring up his name when comparing his impact to that of Curry’s in the current era.



Both have won four championships, with the difference that James lifted the trophy with three different teams, whereas Steph never left Golden State. However, in NBA legend Rick Barry‘s eyes, Curry is the face of NBA.



<h2>Rick Barry calls Stephen Curry face of NBA over LeBron James</h2>



“To me, the biggest face of the NBA is Stephen Curry because more people can relate to him,” Barry told Eric Jay Santos of Inside the Celtics. “A normal, everyday human being can’t relate to LeBron James. 



“He’s an anomaly… a big, powerful guy, and there are not many people like LeBron James. There are people who look like Stephen Curry, are built like Stephen Curry, but they don’t play basketball like Stephen Curry.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/klay-thompson-makes-shocking-claim-about-stephen-currys-workouts-20230811-BUS-44849.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230811_BUS_44849_Klay-Thompson-and-Stephen-Curry.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Stephen Curry never ceases to amaze, not even his Golden State Warriors co-star Klay Thompson.
" title="Klay Thompson makes shocking claim about Stephen Curry&apos;s workouts" publication_id="BUS#20230811#BUS#44849"></div>


Barry knows a thing or two about the league, and he has a fair point. Either way, LeBron is still an inspiration for millions who look up to him regardless of his unique conditions. Both he and Steph are without any doubt the most impactful basketball players the NBA has had in years.

NBA legend explains why Stephen Curry, not LeBron James, is the league's face

NBA legend explains why Stephen Curry, not LeBron James, is the league's face - Bolavip US

For years, people have talked about who’s the greatest player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history. And while most people will agree that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a> should lead the voting, everybody’s entitled to their own opinion.



That includes ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith, who has addressed this subject multiple times. Per him, Jordan is the undisputed GOAT, but LeBron is a close second.



That’s why superagent Rich Paul claimed he was disrespecting the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers </a>star, to which Smith didn’t mince his words when firing back at the Klutch Sports CEO.



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Puts Rich Paul On Blast</h2>



“I got him as the second-best player in the history of basketball,” Smith said. “I got him, ahead of Kareem (Abdul-Jabbar). I got him behind no one but (Michael) Jordan and I said to Mr. Chirper himself, Rich Paul – my boy – and I said, you act like that’s an insult. This dude [said] ‘It is an insult.’ I said ‘Get the f*** out of my face.&apos;”



“Exactly what I said to him,” Smith added. “I don’t want to talk to you no more. When you gonna treat me like I’m disrespecting a man by calling him, in the history of the game that started in 1947, you gonna tell me that I’m disrespecting a man by having him No. 2 all-time, you’ve lost your damn mind. I’m not talking to you.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/michael-jordan-or-lebron-james-dwyane-wade-picked-his-goat-20230814-BUS-46177.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230814_BUS_46177_LeBron-MJ.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade addressed the never-ending debate about who’s the greatest NBA player of all time, Michael Jordan or LeBron James.
" title="Michael Jordan or LeBron James? Dwyane Wade picked his GOAT" publication_id="BUS#20230814#BUS#46177"></div>


Simply put, you’re not going to intimidate Stephen A. Smith. He’s gonna tell it as it is, and having James as a close second, considering how many legends have played this game, is far from disrespectful.

Stephen A. Smith rips LeBron James' agent over alleged disrespect

Stephen A. Smith rips LeBron James' agent over alleged disrespect - Bolavip US

Dwyane Wade was one of the best players in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> history. He may not be put in the same tier as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a> or <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>, but his contribution to the game of basketball is unquestionable.



The Flash played a pivotal role in all three championships in Miami Heat history, leading the team to its first ever success in his third year before winning two more rings next to The King.



Wade was recently introduced into the Basketball Hall of Fame, and his take on the GOAT debate went viral again. In 2021, the former guard revealed his position in this conversation.



<h2>Wade explained why MJ, not LeBron, is his GOAT</h2>



“I come from a Jordan era. I am biased and I’m going to be biased until the day I pass away. Michael Jordan will be my GOAT,” Wade said on the I Am Athlete podcast, via NBC Sports Chicago. “I’m not taking anything away from LeBron. LeBron is amazing. But Michael Jordan is my GOAT.



“He (LeBron) will be the GOAT for a lot of generations. I started playing the game because of Michael Jordan. He will be my GOAT until the day I pass away… For me, from Chicago, where I grew up, I made it out the hood because I seen a dude, No. 23, play the game of basketball at a level that I was like, ‘I just want to do some of that.&apos;”



A Chicago native, Wade made it clear that for obvious reasons MJ will always be at the top. But just like he grew up watching Jordan, he knows that LeBron will be the GOAT for millions who looked up to him this century.



“To me, it doesn’t take anything away from LeBron. LeBron will be the GOAT of this generation that watched him grow up, just like we watched Michael Jordan grow,“ Wade added. “Bron’s my guy. But Jordan’s my GOAT.



“… LeBron is one of my good friends. I have so much respect for what he’s doing now, what he’s done and what he will eventually do, because he’s not done yet. It will definitely be an argument that will need to be had. If LeBron James ends up the No. 1 scorer of all-time, top five in assists and top five in rebounds — and have four, five or six championships — you can not do nothing but have the conversation of who is the greatest of all time.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-or-michael-jordan-stephen-curry-weighs-in-on-goat-debate-20230731-BUS-38775.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230731_BUS_38775_Stephen-Curry-3.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With many people still comparing LeBron James and Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry revealed what he really thinks of the GOAT conversation.
" title="LeBron James or Michael Jordan? Stephen Curry weighs in on GOAT debate" publication_id="BUS#20230731#BUS#38775"></div>


LeBron has already broken Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s scoring record, which puts him in a stronger position in this debate. But like Wade said back in the day, everyone will have their own GOAT.

Michael Jordan or LeBron James? Dwyane Wade picked his GOAT

Michael Jordan or LeBron James? Dwyane Wade picked his GOAT - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-gregg-popovich-suggests-which-city-deserves-an-expansion-team-20230814-BUS-46052.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230814_BUS_46052_Gregg-Popovich-during-the-2023-HOF-Ceremony.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Gregg Popovich is one of the most respected voices in the NBA. He has earned the right to be heard, and he has used his platform to advocate for many important causes, including bringing an expansion team to other cities.
" title="NBA: Gregg Popovich suggests which city deserves an expansion team" publication_id="BUS#20230814#BUS#46052"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-pat-riley-reveals-who-carried-the-miami-heat-not-lebron-james-20230814-BUS-45978.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230814_BUS_45978_lebronjames-16.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Pat Riley is the president of the Miami Heat. He is also a former player and coach who won multiple championship rings. He knows who the players are who have contributed the most to the franchise during this century.
" title="NBA: Pat Riley reveals who carried the Miami Heat, not LeBron James" publication_id="BUS#20230814#BUS#45978"></div>


<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pau-gasol">Pau Gasol</a> entered the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> in 2001 with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/memphis-grizzlies">Memphis Grizzlies</a>, but he is best remembered for his dominant years with the Los Angeles Lakers from 2008 to 2014, when he won two NBA championships.



Pau Gasol’s legacy is as strong as the players he named to his personal top 11, which includes LeBron James, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry">Stephen Curry</a>, Bill Russell, Larry Bird and other household names.



Pau Gasol scored over 20,000 points in the NBA, along with 11,305 rebounds and nearly 4,000 assists during his nearly 20-year career with 5 franchises.



<h2>What is the top 11 of all-time according to Pau Gasol?</h2>



In a recent article in the LA Times, Gasol named his personal top 11 NBA players of all time. The list includes a mix of players from the 20th and 21st centuries, with some active players still in the league.



<ol><li>Kareem Adbul-Jabbar</li><li>Bill Russell</li><li>Magic Johnson</li><li>Larry Bird</li><li>Michael Jordan</li><li>Kobe ​Nryant</li><li>Tim Duncan</li><li>Kevin Garnett</li><li>Dirk Nowitzki</li><li>Lebron James</li><li>Stephen Curry</li></ol>



Gasol played with two of the players on his list, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant">Kobe Bryant</a> and Tim Duncan. He won two championships with Bryant, and he played with Duncan for one season with the San Antonio Spurs.

NBA: Pau Gasol names Top 11 players of all-time, LeBron included

NBA: Gregg Popovich suggests which city deserves an expansion team

NBA: Pat Riley reveals who carried the Miami Heat, not LeBron James

NBA: Pau Gasol names Top 11 players of all-time, LeBron included - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> have won three <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA </a>championships in the 21st century, the most recent being in 2012-2013 when LeBron James was still part of the franchise along with other stars like Chris Bosh and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwayne-wade">Dwyane Wade</a>. Pat Riley was the president of the franchise at the time.



It’s been more than 10 years since the Miami Heat won an NBA championship, but they have lost two finals in the past four seasons, which indicates that they are still a competitive team even without LeBron James.



Pat Riley doesn’t get all the credit for the Miami Heat’s success. Erik Spoelstra, who has been the head coach since 2008, has also played a key role in the team’s growth.



<h2>Who is the player who carried Miami Heat according to Pat Riley?</h2>



According to Pat Riley, the player who carried the Miami Heat was Dwyane Wade. Riley said at the 2023 Basketball Hall of Fame ceremony that Wade “carried our franchise” and “brought so much to our organization.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">"He carried our franchise…he&apos;s bought so much to our organization." Hall of Famer and Heat President, Pat Riley gives Dwyane Wade his flowers 👏 <a href="https://t.co/Cze8iDqxX0">pic.twitter.com/Cze8iDqxX0</a>— NBA TV (@NBATV) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBATV/status/1690505690815606784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Pat Riley has won a total of nine NBA championship rings, most of them as a head coach between 1982 and 2006. He has two rings as president of the Miami Heat and one as a Lakers player.

NBA: Pat Riley reveals who carried the Miami Heat, not LeBron James - Bolavip US

<div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-christmas-day-who-joins-lebron-james-and-stephen-curry-20230812-BUS-45136.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230812_BUS_45136_lebron-james-6.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The NBA Schedule now has some matchups confirmed, including the Christmas Day lineup. Headlined by LeBron James and Stephen Curry, five games are set to highlight the date.
" title="NBA Christmas Day: Who joins LeBron James and Stephen Curry?" publication_id="BUS#20230812#BUS#45136"></div>

 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/giannis-antetokounmpo-has-big-news-for-bucks-about-2023-fiba-world-cup-20230811-BUS-45050.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230811_BUS_45050_giannisantetokounmpo.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Giannis Antetokounmpo just made a huge decision regarding his future with the Milwaukee Bucks.
" title="Giannis Antetokounmpo is out of the 2023 FIBA World Cup" publication_id="BUS#20230811#BUS#45050"></div>


Another set of big names are joining the Basketball Hall of Fame on Saturday, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwyane-wade">Dwyane Wade</a> was one of the few selected to receive the honor. Wade had messages from a long list of big-time players, but <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> sent the most special one.



Wade and LeBron played together in what became an iconic Big 3, completed by another great player like Chris Bosh. Their four-year run together at the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> equaled four NBA Finals appearances, and they won the 2012 and 2013 championships. Therefore, heartfelt words from the King were expected.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/tracy-mcgrady-explains-why-victor-wembanyama-could-struggle-20230811-BUS-44811.html" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20230811_BUS_44811_Victor-Wembanyama.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="NBA Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady wants people to pull the brakes on the Victor Wembanyama hype.
" title="Tracy McGrady explains why Victor Wembanyama could struggle" publication_id="BUS#20230811#BUS#44811"></div>


“Today is the official day my brother Dwyane Wade goes into the HOF! Wow, wow, wow, bro! I can’t say enough how proud and happy I am. The kid from Robbins, Illinois, now in the HALL!!! You a bad man, Trey Ball! SCREAMING CONGRATULATIONS. Love you, kid!”, LeBron posted on Twitter.



<h2>Hall of Fame Class 2023</h2>



The 2023 class that’s being enshrined into the Hall of Fame is full of significant people. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-antonio-spurs">San Antonio Spurs</a> are well represented with Gregg Popovich and Tony Parker, along with former assistant under Popovich Becky Hammon.



Pau Gasol is another legend being inducted, along with Dallas Mavericks icon Dirk Nowitzki. Wade headlines among the more renown new members. However, there is a long list that are joining them.



Gene Bess, David Hixon, and Gene Keady are part of the North American Committee. Gary Blair appears in the Women’s Committee, while Jim Valvano was selected as a Contributor and the 1976 US Women’s Olympic Team was named in the category Women’s Veterans.

LeBron James’ Message to Dwyane Wade for his HOF Induction

Giannis Antetokounmpo is out of the 2023 FIBA World Cup

NBA Christmas Day: Who joins LeBron James and Stephen Curry?

LeBron James’ Message to Dwyane Wade for HOF Induction - Bolavip US

Latest news from LeBron James. Find out about all the news related to LeBron James on bolavip.com/en

LeBron James - Page 91