When it comes to sports, fans always have strong opinions on their favorite players or teams, creating endless debates and setting up divisions on who stands out above the rest. The same is said true in the question of the GOAT—the greatest of all time.
The National Basketball Association (NBA), one of the world's premier basketball leagues, also felt the magnitude of this never-ending discussion. In fairness, the league has never set definitive criteria for determining who's really the GOAT. This has led to millions of discussions fueled by personal preferences, playing styles, and accolades.
Who's Leading the Charts?
A six-time champion and a five-time MVP, Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls dominated the NBA during the late 20th Century thanks to his greatness as a star shooting guard. Owing to his unmatched skillset, offensive prowess, and defensive brilliance, his influence, spanning global and cultural reach, has been unparalleled until today.
Currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James is a strong candidate for the coveted distinction. Holding the record for the most points in league history while playing virtually all positions, he has won four NBA titles, four MVP awards, 19 all-NBA selections, and 18 All-Star appearances during his 22 years in the league, a living testament to his longevity.
Last but not least, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar revolutionized the game during the 70s with his patented skyhook and inside-game dominance. He is currently the second-best scorer in the league, and with six MVPs and 15 All-Star selections, he proves his brute power in an era where big men ruled the paint.
So, Who's the GOAT?
One may make a strong point on what, to them, makes a player the best in his field. However, there's no way we can make an objective vantage point of who's the GOAT. Each player excelled in different eras under unique circumstances, and while statistics, championships, and accolades contribute to the discussion, there will never be a definitive answer unless these legends could compete against each other—which, of course, is impossible.
Some fans may vouch for LeBron's records, Jordan's relentless winning mentality, or Kareem's dominance in the NBA's heydays. One may bring Kobe Bryant's unmatched game ethic, Wilt Chamberlain's strength, or Magic Johnson or Allen Iverson's cultural appeal. However, instead of seeking a unanimous decision, it's more fitting to acknowledge that greatness is defined differently across generations.
When debating who the greatest player of all time is, people should look at how much better they were than other players during their own time. Then, it is not about the recorded statistics they have, but the era they are in and dominant.
Article: Mr. Jerome Meynard Ferrer (BSE-ENG 3A)
Photo courtesy of ClutchPoints