In This Story
Chicago Bulls
Golden State Warriors
Los Angeles Lakers
Sep 9, 2025 9:57 PM EDT
One of the biggest debates in the NBA world often revolves around who the greatest player of all time is.
That conversation typically comes down to two names: LeBron James and Michael Jordan, both of whom have cemented their legacies as two of the greatest basketball players and athletes to ever live.
James’ career isn’t finished yet, as he’s set to return for his 23rd NBA season this year. But according to Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green — who has faced James numerous times, including four meetings in the NBA Finals — James is the better player.
During an appearance on Kai Cenat’s globally known stream, Green explained why he believes James holds the edge over Jordan:
“It’s Bron because people threw the towel in on J.R. Smith… It’s not just J.R. though — if you look at some of the guys he had to lead, when people throw the towel in on you, it’s over. And people threw the towel in on J.R., and Bron’s like, ‘Nah, this man can shoot, and he can defend. I can do something with that,'” Green said. “I don’t think MJ had many guys that went through that.”
Oops! We’re unable to load this content right now.
View directly on 𝕏
“He won two games in the NBA Finals with Matthew Dellavedova… Delly stinks,” Green added. “I got a lot of respect for Delly, but he completely stinks. To win with guys like that — MJ wasn’t winning with Matthew Dellavedova.”
“Steve Kerr is probably one of Jordan’s worst teammates that contributed… Steve Kerr was a damn good NBA player who played for 14 or 15 years.”
Golden State Warriors, Draymond Green
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23).
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images — Source: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
It’s likely a debate that will never be fully settled, largely due to the generational gap. Those who grew up watching Michael Jordan tend to side with the six-time NBA champion, who never lost in the NBA Finals.
Meanwhile, many who grew up in the 2000s are more likely to favor LeBron James, who has broken numerous of Jordan’s records thanks to his durability and career longevity. James is also the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and boasts four NBA championships on his resume.
Interestingly, despite the ongoing debate, James grew up idolizing Jordan — the main reason he chose to wear No. 23, a decision he has cited many times throughout his career.
“I just think what Michael Jordan has done for the game has to be recognized in some way soon,” James said back in March 2010. “If you see 23, you think about Michael Jordan. You see guys flying through the air, you think about Michael Jordan. You see game-winning shots, you think about Michael Jordan. You see fly kicks, you think about Michael Jordan. He did so much, it has to be recognized, and not just by putting him in the Hall of Fame.”
About the author
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Cole Sullivan is a Trending News Writer at Athlon Sports, covering the NFL, NBA, College Football, and other major sports with in-depth analysis, breaking news, and year-round coverage.