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In a recent appearance at Invest Fest 2025 in Atlanta, NBA legend Magic Johnson made headlines by reaffirming his position in the ongoing debate over who holds the title of the greatest basketball player of all time (GOAT). Once again, he did not shy away from expressing his preference for Michael Jordan over LeBron James.
Magic Reiterates His GOAT Choice: Michael Jordan
During a lively Q&A session, Johnson was asked about his views on the GOAT debate, a topic he has addressed numerous times. However, his answer remains consistent. Magic recounted the iconic moment during the 1991 NBA Finals where Jordan showcased his “switch-hand” layup that left an indelible mark on both the game and Magic himself.
“I love him, I love my boy. But when Michael Jordan took off with the tongue out…1991 against my Lakers. Right hand, we thought we had him. He looked as we went down, he switched it to the left hand, tongue went left, spun it against the glass, and good. There’s nobody alive that’s just been able to do that,” said Johnson, emphasizing Jordan’s unique skill set and competitive spirit.
Emotional Impact of the 1991 Finals
This particular game, referred to by many as the moment that broke the Lakers‘ spirit, saw Jordan dominate with 33 points on an impressive 15-of-18 shooting. His performance in Game 2 was decisive; the Bulls won 107-86, leading to their first NBA championship and marking Michael Jordan’s ascent as an icon in basketball history.
Johnson fondly recalls that match and notes how Jordan’s performance serves as a benchmark that is hard to match. “LeBron is a bad boy too, but he’s not Michael,” he reiterated, effectively drawing a line in the sand that divides fans of both players even further.
Magic’s Top Lakers All-Time List Excludes LeBron
In a separate event at the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, Johnson was also asked to name his top five favorite Lakers players of all time. Interestingly, he did not include LeBron James in the list, instead celebrating the contributions of fellow legends such as Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Shaquille O’Neal.
- Kobe Bryant
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
- Shaquille O’Neal
- Wilt Chamberlain
- Jerry West
Magic stated, “Nobody is like Kobe. His killer mentality, hitting big shots after big shots, but also loved being a Laker. Kareem was just awesome… So I would say Kareem, Shaq, Kobe,” showcasing his emotional connection to the players who shaped the Lakers’ legacy.
A Respected Perspective on the Debate
Magic Johnson’s opinion as a former player who has not only played against but also alongside Michael Jordan, provides a unique perspective on this enduring debate. While he readily acknowledges LeBron’s talents, his heart stays loyal to Jordan, whose legendary status continues to influence the NBA landscape.
As the conversation about the GOAT continues, fans remain vigilant in supporting their chosen player. Whether one aligns with Magic’s views or champions LeBron’s contributions, there’s no denying that the debate itself adds an exciting layer to the sport.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson’s commitment to his resolution in the GOAT debate only emphasizes the long-standing nature of this sports discussion. As he beautifully articulated his admiration for both players, it serves to highlight the shared history and passion that basketball fans have for this beautiful sport.
FAQs on Magic Johnson and the GOAT Debate
Who does Magic Johnson consider the greatest of all time?
Magic Johnson considers Michael Jordan the greatest of all time, citing his iconic performances and unique skills.
What did Magic say about LeBron James?
Magic acknowledged LeBron James as a great player but emphasized that he believes Jordan is superior in the GOAT debate.
Which players did Magic Johnson include in his top Lakers list?
Magic Johnson included Kobe Bryant, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Wilt Chamberlain, and Jerry West in his top Lakers list, excluding LeBron James.
What was the iconic moment Magic referenced from the 1991 Finals?
Magic referenced Michael Jordan’s memorable switch-hand layup during the 1991 NBA Finals against the Lakers, which he considers a defining moment of Jordan’s career.
Why is the GOAT debate significant in basketball discussions?
The GOAT debate fosters a passionate discourse among fans, making it a captivating aspect of basketball culture that continuously evolves with new players and performances.
