First EVER LeBron vs Jordan Debate With Stephen A. Smith & Shannon Sharpe

On this page, we feature a heated and passionate discussion between Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharpe, tackling the age-old question in sports: Who is the greatest basketball player of all time—LeBron James or Michael Jordan?

The GOAT debate has raged for decades, and while LeBron James continues to make history, especially deep into his 30s and now in his 40s, many still believe Michael Jordan’s legacy is untouchable. And here’s why.

The Case for Michael Jordan:

Let’s be clear: LeBron James is one of the most complete basketball players the game has ever seen. He can guard all five positions, pass like Magic Johnson, score like Karl Malone, and even rebound and block shots like a power forward. But that doesn’t mean he’s greater than Michael Jordan.

Jordan’s dominance, especially in his prime, remains unmatched. If both players were 30 years old—at the height of their powers—Jordan would outclass LeBron. Here’s why:

Jordan never choked in the NBA Finals. LeBron’s collapse against the Dallas Mavericks in 2011 is a stain that can’t be ignored. Jordan? 6-for-6 in the Finals. Never went to a Game 7.

Jordan’s era was far more physical. Teams like the Detroit Pistons created entire defensive schemes—The Jordan Rules—just to stop him. And even then, he overcame it.

Jordan didn’t just win—he dominated. He retired at the top of the game twice, each time after winning a championship. If not for his brief retirement to play baseball, he could’ve won eight straight titles. Statistically, Jordan still leads where it matters most.

All-time leader in points per game in both the regular season (30.1 PPG) and the playoffs (33.4 PPG).

10 scoring titles.

6 NBA championships.

6 NBA Finals MVPs.

5 regular season MVPs.

Defensive Player of the Year (1988).

14-time All-Star.

10-time All-NBA First Team.

9-time All-Defensive First Team.

NBA Rookie of the Year.

2-time Olympic gold medalist.

Hall of Famer (inducted in 2009).

Cultural dominance: Every great player after Jordan has been measured against him—not LeBron. From Harold Miner to Vince Carter to Kobe Bryant to Anthony Edwards, the next great talent is always "the next MJ."

The Bottom Line

Yes, LeBron is still putting up great numbers into his 40s, which is admirable and historic. But greatness isn't just about longevity—it's about peak dominance, fear factor, competitive edge, and unrelenting will to win. Jordan has all of that in spades.

So enjoy the video debate between Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharpe, but understand—when it comes to impact, dominance, and legendary status—Michael Jordan is still the standard.