The debate over who’s the greatest basketball player of all time never seems to end. Whether it’s LeBron James, Michael Jordan or someone else entirely, fans stay passionate and divided.
Even so, there appears to be mutual respect between the Jordan and James camps. That respect showed up again this weekend when LeBron posted a video of himself golfing. The caption read:
“Day 2 of officially trying this ⛳️ðð¾ out! Boy o boy it's a mind [expletive] to say the least! But I think I enjoy that part of it a lot!”
James, approaching his 41st birthday in December, looked a little raw on the course. Still, Michael Jordan’s eldest son, Jeffrey Jordan, seemed to give him credit, posting four clapping emojis in the replies.
While it wasn’t a loud endorsement, fans noticed the acknowledgment, which felt like a quiet nod of approval from the Jordan side.
LeBron James, Instagram
LeBron James, Instagram
LeBron James, Instagram
LeBron has been in the NBA since 2003, when he was drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He’s also played for the Miami Heat and currently stars for the Los Angeles Lakers.
There’s been plenty of speculation about James possibly switching teams for one last championship run before he retires. If LeBron suits up for the 2025-26 season, he’ll break Vince Carter’s record for most seasons played in the NBA. He’s already passed the all-time record for minutes played and continues to extend it.
Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Over his career, James has been selected to 21 All-Star games, won four NBA titles and earned three Olympic gold medals.
Michael Jordan retired for the third and final time in 2003 as a member of the Washington Wizards. He won six NBA titles and five MVP awards with the Chicago Bulls from 1984-93 and 1995-98, also appearing in 14 All-Star games. Jordan finished his career with 32,292 points and won two Olympic gold medals, in 1984 and 1992.
The debate between James and Jordan supporters will never stop, but moments like this show that even amid the rivalry, there’s still room for mutual respect.