The NBA GOAT debate is one that will never end any time soon. For years, many have debated whether Michael Jordan or LeBron James is the game’s greatest player. Additionally, other names like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, and Kobe Bryant get tossed into the mix as well. It is always a popular conversation and will likely remain one for the rest of time. The debate is so polarizing that even other NBA players get into it. Most recently, New York Knicks big man Karl-Anthony Towns gave his opinion about who the best player in league history is.
In a recent interview with NFL legend Shannon Sharpe (YouTube link), Towns spoke on the NBA GOAT debate. Though he prefaced by saying he “can’t speak for everything,” the 28-year-old opined that James is the best NBA player of all time.
“Like I said I’m always going to speak what I see with my own two eyes. I can’t speak for everything, I wouldn’t be able to but man that man Bron he’s different. That man Bron… something special. I’ve been in the league for 10 years so I’ve seen Bron in so many different stages. I feel LeBron’s the best player we’ve ever seen talent-wise. I think he’s the best player, now if you want to get caught up in championships and rings and all that stuff, that’s up to people to debate.”
Karl-Anthony Towns Reveals ‘Best Player We’ve Ever Seen’
The LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan Debate
This debate will never go away. Ultimately, both players are legends in their own right and did it in different ways. Jordan’s dominance on the basketball court is well-documented. Additionally, he remains one of the game’s greatest winners, never losing in the NBA Finals. James is also dominant, but his longevity and ability to play at such a high level for multiple decades is unprecedented in the NBA and potentially sets him apart from Jordan. Both players have the accolades, the accomplishments, and the right to have consideration as the greatest basketball player in history. There are lots of other players who deserve a spot in the conversation as well. However, when discussing the absolute greatest, James and Jordan are typically the two most popular candidates for a reason.
The Last Word On Karl-Anthony Towns’ Comments
Towns brings up an interesting point. From a talent perspective, James is easily one of the greatest players the game of basketball has ever seen. He has developed immensely over the years and has changed the way he plays on the court. For him to still be an MVP candidate and one of the best players in the league heading into his age-40 season is remarkable. However, as Towns mentions, in a sense, there are other debates within the overall GOAT debate. James could be the most talented player in NBA history. However, he does not have the championships that Jordan has and likely never will.
Regardless of how you look at it, both legends deserve their flowers. They are two of the best players the game has ever seen and will remain the center of this debate for many years to come.
