A longstanding topic in sports is the debate of comparisons-comparing players from different eras of the game. One of the most talked-about debates is between NBA legends Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
This discussion is perhaps the most back-and-forth of any "GOAT" debate in the sports world. However, despite the competition, the respect between the two superstars has remained mutual. Recently, the debate was reignited when LeBron James stirred the pot on "The Pat McAfee Show" by suggesting that Giannis Antetokounmpo would dominate in the 1970s.
While this comment sparked conversation, there's also been plenty of speculation about how James would fare in a different basketball era. On Monday, during an interview with Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson, Jayson Williams-who is a close friend of Michael Jordan-revealed that over a recent golf game with him, Jordan, and Charles Oakley, Jordan told him, "LeBron James could play in ANY era."
Check out the interview:
Michael Jordan Discussed LeBron James While On The Golf Course With Charles Oakley & Jayson Williams
While golfing with Oakley & Williams, MJ weighed in on LeBron's place in NBA history and said:
"LeBron James could play in ANY era."
Watch https://t.co/jGVIrfJ2WO… https://t.co/37ikV2LWaJpic.twitter.com/1IfWggrOrH
— Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson (@ScoopB) March 31, 2025
This comment quickly gained widespread attention across several social media outlets, with fans reacting to Jordan's remarks
"The LeBron haters are going to be sick over this. I'm here for it," A fan said.
"I think I can agree with this but he really does belong to this era of basketball, not any other one," Someone else added.
"Something like that coming out from MJ shows how crazy the LBJ media motion is, glad it's something positive from MJ's camp," Another fan posted.
One more fan commented, "I think it's pretty obvious. Anyone who disagrees is a moron."
Comparison is often labeled as the thief of joy, and whether you're a Jordan fan, a LeBron fan, or both, they have cemented their legacies as two of the greatest basketball players to ever play the game, a fact that cannot be denied.
There is clearly mutual respect between the two superstars, as James has made it very clear that he wears No. 23 because of Jordan. Regardless of the debates or what fans on either side may argue, that respect remains undeniable.
Related: Old Video of LeBron James and Cooper Flagg Resurfaces After Duke's Final Four Berth
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This story was originally published March 31, 2025 at 4:01 PM.