The argument about the best player is still contentious, with Stephen A. Smith supporting Michael Jordan as the definitive GOAT. During a recent broadcast of ESPN’s First Take, Smith presented five convincing reasons to back up his position after LeBron James was recently knocked out of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Jordan’s Lasting Brand Power
Smith started by emphasizing the lasting influence of Jordan’s brand. Even after retiring, Jordan’s Jumpman emblem and Air Jordan shoes still reign supreme in both the sports and fashion industries, showcasing his unparalleled worldwide reach.
Unmatched Killer Instinct
Smith highly complimented Jordan’s fierce determination, highlighting how his insatiable drive and strong competitive nature distinguished him from other outstanding athletes. Smith thinks that Jordan’s success was largely due to his strong determination.
Overcoming Fierce Rivals
Jordan’s skill in defeating his most challenging opponents was also a major factor in Smith’s argument. Jordan’s superior skills were evident in an era full of strong competitors, as he outshone players such as Isiah Thomas, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird.
Loyalty and Longevity
Smith also praised Jordan’s dedication to the Chicago Bulls, the team where he won all six of his NBA titles. Jordan’s influence on the Bulls changed them into a dominant force, mirroring his contribution to their achievements.
Perfect NBA Finals Record
Finally, Smith highlighted Jordan’s perfect record in the NBA Finals. Jordan’s impressive record of six Finals appearances, six championships, and six Finals MVP awards highlights his greatness on the league’s most important platform.
Jordan’s Own Perspective
Even though there is a continuous argument, Jordan has frequently redirected talks about being the greatest of all time. He previously mentioned that the focus should be on the best team, specifically talking about his Bulls teams that were dominant in the 1990s.
Smith is defending Jordan in response to controversial comments made by Anthony Edwards, who claimed Jordan was the sole skilled player from past eras. This has caused responses, such as warnings from Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas about the use of “propaganda” in the GOAT discussion.
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