LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Michael JordanLeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan (Image Source: Getty Images)


When the debate of the GOAT in the NBA comes up, names like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James often come forward. However, former NBA star John Stockton has a different perspective. He doesn’t see any of these legends as the perfect fit for the GOAT title.

Stockton recently appeared on The Huddle and shared his bold claims about Jordan, James, and Bryant. He stated that any of these three wouldn’t even be in his top five players of all time.

“Well, I wouldn’t use those three. Some of those three or one of those three wouldn’t even be in my top five. I hate that question and I get asked it all the time. Who’s anybody to say, ‘Well it’s either of those three,” Stockton said.

“There’s so many guys that I would put in that handful of first five. I’m not certain that the guys that are suggested are always the ones that I would put in there with them,” he continued.

In terms of on-court achievements, Bryant may fall slightly behind as one of the five greatest players ever, having won five titles and two Finals MVPs.

But that’s not necessarily true for Jordan and James. The Los Angeles Lakers legend, who recently inked a contract extension, has won four titles and four Finals MVPs till now. Meanwhile, Jordan ended his career by winning six titles and six Finals MVPs.

LeBron James Keeps the Fire Alive to Lead Team USA in Paris

Only James is still active in his NBA career among the legendary trio of Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. He is still maintaining nearly the same level of performance and energy he had at the start. Now, James is directing his full attention to the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he will lead Team USA.

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, James shared his ongoing dedication to basketball and his appreciation for Team USA.

“I’m still playing a high level. I still love the game of basketball. And Team USA has done well by me, so I felt like it was important for this summer to be able to go out there and play with the rest of the guys,” he said.