“LeBron James Hasn’t Achieved a Level of Greatness”: Former NBA Player Puts a Big Question Mark on His Legacy

The first two episodes of Michael Jordan’s ‘The Last Dance’ mesmerized everyone. The docuseries showcases how Jordan was unstoppable in his prime, something that has opened up a whole new can of worms. Comparisons between Michael Jordan and LeBron James are afoot after revisiting the Jumpman’s glory years.

Jalen Rose, a former NBA star, stated his opinion on a recent episode of ESPN’s ‘Get Up!’. Rose retired from the NBA in 2007 and features on the show as an analyst.

According to him, LeBron James has to pass a few more people on the “all-time greats” list to get close to Michael Jordan.

LeBron James has to achieve a lot more to be compared with MJ

Rose did not mince any words when the hosts asked him, “Who is the greatest basketball player ever: Michael Jordan or LeBron James?”

The 47-year-old stated that James is not even close to reaching the same level as Michael Jordan. There are a few people who have found more success in the NBA than he ever has.

Clarifying his point, he said, “There are some people that played basketball that have accomplished some things, and achieved a level of greatness, that LeBron just has not been able to do.”

“You want me to name them for you? Besides Michael Jordan?” He listed the names of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Bill Russell. “You’ve ever heard of a guy named Earvin “Magic” Johnson? When did LeBron pass Magic? Did I miss something?”

Why is LeBron not considered at the top of the mountain?

Clearly, Rose picked these players ahead of LeBron James because the current Lakers star has less NBA championships when compared to them. According to Rose, Michael Jordan is at the pinnacle when you talk about the greatest player ever. However, other players who have more titles outrank LeBron at the top.

Abdul-Jabbar has six titles to his name and Magic Johnson won five championships. The legendary Bill Russell has the honor of winning 11 NBA championships throughout his career, the most by any player.

Though James’ three titles fall short in comparison with these players, his individual performance has made him a stand-out on several occasions.

LeBron James, playing in his 17th year, is still going strong. The Los Angeles Lakers are atop the Western Conference table and hold the league’s second-best record. 

The 35-year-old has his eyes set on the prize this year. Should the season resume, James will be raring to go out and win his fourth NBA championship.

His extraordinary plays this season have also caused him to rank at the top as the favorite to win the MVP award this year. James will be looking at accomplishing an overall result for the team which will in turn fetch him his fifth MVP honor.