In a 2020 poll of 600 fans, Michael Jordan emerged victorious in every category, showcasing his dominance at the time. However, the landscape has since shifted. James’ remarkable achievements, including his fourth NBA championship, all-time scoring record, and numerous other milestones, have strengthened his case.
A more recent poll of 103 NBA players revealed a closer race, with Jordan still leading at 58.3% and James following at 33%. However, The Athletic’s latest poll, which surveyed 133 players, has brought the two legends neck and neck, with Jordan at 45.9% and James at 42.1%.
While polling results can vary based on the preferences of the respondents, they indicate a growing recognition of James’ greatness. His continued All-Star performances and record-breaking statistics, despite being older than Jordan when he retired, suggest that the gap between the two icons is indeed narrowing.
Ultimately, the debate over who is the greatest basketball player of all time remains subjective and will likely continue to evolve as James’ career unfolds. However, the recent polling data suggests that James is making a strong case for surpassing Jordan’s legacy.