Alright, hoop heads, let’s dive into some MJ magic!
Michael Jordan: The GOAT Debate
MJ’s got six rings, 14 All-Star nods, and a jaw-dropping 32,292 points. Yet, he’s humble about the GOAT title. He often says Larry Bird and Magic Johnson are right there with him. "I don’t put myself above them. I think that we’re all on parallel ground here,” he told SLAM.
Bird and Magic: MJ’s Equals?
Larry Bird snagged three titles, while Magic Johnson racked up five. MJ believes these legends made just as big an impact. “They educated me about a lot of things about the game, from a team standpoint,” he said. Jordan’s respect for them is clear, especially since they played in different eras. He faced them when he was young, and later when he was in his prime. It’s like a passing of the torch, but he never got to battle them at their peaks.
Magic and Bird on MJ
Even though MJ plays it cool, Bird and Magic have nothing but praise for him. Magic once said on the Jennifer Hudson Show, “Michael is the greatest that’s ever played.” Bird went even further, saying, “I think he’s God disguised as Michael Jordan.” High praise from two of the best!
“Michael was a killer from day 1.. he was an assassin from day 1”
One of my favorite players ever, Big Pat Ewing, talks about why Jordan is The Goat. He gives Bron his flowers as many do in this forced argument, but compares Bron to Magic, not Mike
It’s not even close
— Apex Jones (@ApexJones22)
Dennis Rodman: The Rebound King
Now, when it comes to rebounding, MJ has no doubts. Dennis Rodman is his pick for the best rebounder ever. Back in 2013, when asked about it, he didn’t even hesitate. “Dennis [Rodman],” he said. “Come on, now. The best rebounder—one of the best rebounders in the game.”
Rodman’s unique style, from colorful hair to painted nails, never distracted MJ. “Dennis understands winning. He has been with championship teams,” Jordan noted. In my opinion, Rodman’s hustle and heart were unmatched. Diving for loose balls like a madman, he gave 110% every game. Without him, the Bulls’ dynasty might not have been the same.
MJ even admitted the Bulls wouldn’t have won all those titles without Rodman. “You can’t find another player on the basketball court that works just as hard as Dennis Rodman,” he explained. The Worm’s relentless effort was crucial to their success.
So, what do you think? Is MJ too humble, or is he spot-on about Bird and Magic? And how about Rodman—best rebounder ever, or what? Let’s hear your takes!
