NBA legend and Inside The NBA star Charles Barkley said he avoids debates between LeBron James and Michael Jordan in the media because it’s weak journalism.
For years, many have debated whether James or Jordan should be considered the greatest basketball player of all-time – but truly, we will probably never have an answer and the question will always spark passionate discussions.
Both men played in different eras and never crossed paths so it’s hard to find a direct comparison, but some will argue Jordan holds the upper hand due to his six NBA championships to James’ four.
However, LeBron’s 21-year (and counting) career at the very top with 20 All-Star selections as well as being the league’s all-time leading scorer means others prefer to tip the scales in his favor.
The debate will win Grammy awards in barbershops for generations to come but Barkley explained why he opts to steer clear of the conversation in the media:
“I don’t get into the debate between Michael and LeBron ’cause I think it’s weak journalism when guys on television, radio tryna get fools to call in to argue.
“They’re both great. Michael Jordan is the best basketball player I ever played against. These young kids, they played against LeBron.”
The 61-year-old also dropped in an interesting nugget of information for those who sway towards James:
“As great as LeBron is, he’s still behind Michael Jordan in 30-point games, and he’s played seven more seasons. That is astonishing. Even if you think LeBron’s the G.O.A.T., you wouldn’t have known that.”
WATCH: Charles Barkley looks guilty of ‘weak journalism’ himself with LeBron vs Jordan debates
Charles Barkley says he’ll slap the hell out of anyone that says LeBron is as good as Michael Jordan. pic.twitter.com/rQ1agBeOm4
— BossHogg (@6Hogg6) January 20, 2024
Charles Barkley makes THREE things very clear:
1. Michael Jordan is the GOAT
2. Lebron not only is not 2nd, he’s not greater than Kobe Bryant.
3. Lebron stacked his teams and quitters like him who stacked teams and created super teams lessen their legacy. #NBA pic.twitter.com/y6rTzfJ1Xp
— Apex Jones (@ApexJones22) April 3, 2023