LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers opened up honestly about how he views his connection to Michael Jordan’s legacy in a set of ESPN interviews carried out over the course of the season.
The Lakers forward discussed the ongoing GOAT conversation, the clear differences in how they each approached the game, and his 4-6 record in the Finals.
The interviews, led by ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin and spanning eight different cities throughout the year, present James as he nears the closing chapter of his NBA journey.
“I hope I made him proud at least, wearing that No. 23,” James told McMenamin.
James, who stands 6-foot-9 and weighs 250 pounds, spoke plainly about how his playing style contrasts with Jordan’s, who measured 6-6 and 200 pounds.
“I never have compared myself to MJ because our games are totally different,” James said. “I have been a point-forward/forward-point my whole life. I have always looked for the pass. MJ kind of looked for the shot. Not kind of, he did. He looked for the shot.
“There are a lot of things where I would say my game is a lot different and a little better than his, but s—, he was f—ing great. We’re both great. We’re both great basketball players.”
LeBron James Addresses Michael Jordan GOAT Debate, Finals Record In Wide-Ranging Interview https://t.co/S3KZOQfxPV
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 29, 2026
