Former Michael Jordan teammate makes bold claim about LeBron James: "No NBA player actually thinks LeBron is the GOAT"

In the ongoing debate over who deserves the title of the GOAT, two names consistently rise to the surface: LeBron James and Michael Jordan. For years, fans, analysts, and players alike have engaged in discussions. Recently, Jordan's former teammate, Kwame Brown made a surprising statement on the GOAT debate during an interview on the YouTube channel Dreamers Pro.

"People say LeBron is the GOAT because he controls the media… no NBA player actually thinks LeBron is the GOAT," Brown said. (5:17)

To further add to the GOAT debate, former basketball players, Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O'Neal have voiced MJ as their GOAT choice. Carmelo Anthony also stands among those who regard Jordan as the greatest player in basketball history.

Conversely, others, such as, Isiah Thomas, have gone on the record in picking the four-time champion as his GOAT choice. Similarly, Allen Iverson chose the Lakers star as the greatest player of all time.

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NBA analyst doesn't consider LeBron James' 40,000 points a significant factor in the GOAT debate

Jordan supporters often cite his impressive collection of championships, MVP awards, and his flawless 6-0 record in the NBA Finals. While fans of the LA Lakers star have argued that his all-around accomplishments should be taken into consideration. LeBron James is the only player in the league that has scored 40,000 points, so far.

However, ESPN's Stephen A. Smith doesn't agree that it should matter when it comes to talking about the greatest player of all time.

"Here's why I didn't make a big deal of [James scoring 40,000 points]," Smith said. "...I'll never put him above Michael Jordan, it's that. The GOAT debate for me is not longevity. It's what you were at you best versus them at their best. And what level of adversity you faced at the time you were being your best."

Smith talked about it at the 14:10 mark of the video.

Smith pointed out that LeBron James eliminated DeMar DeRozan and the Toronto Raptors did not fare well with Jordan winning against the Bad Boy Pistons. He added that King James' decision to join Wade and Chris Bosh isn't the same as Michael Jordan beating Magic Johnson and the Lakers for his first ring.

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