The GOAT debate has divided the NBA world into two camps. While the majority believe Michael Jordan is the GOAT, given his six championships in his trophy cabinet; the rest believe LeBron James is a more efficient player. With many analysts and fans making their pick over the years, this time it is Jordan Brand’s current face, Luka Doncic, who weighed in on the debate.

Luka Doncic picks Michael Jordan as his ‘GOAT’

Luka Doncic is currently in the Gulf country Abu Dhabi for the 2023 NBA exhibition games. The Dallas Mavericks locked horns with the Minnesota Timberwolves at the preseason opener at the Etihad Arena. The Mavericks had a disappointing start to the season as they faced a humbling 111-99 defeat against the Timberwolves. And then, in a post-game interview, Luka was asked who he thought was the GOAT.

He stated, ?MJ, It?s MJ?. People often compare Luka?to Michael Jordan for his winning mentality. It is obvious he holds the Chicago Bulls legend in high regard. However, his answer came as a surprise since the Slovenian phenom had given an interesting perspective just hours before this interview.

Just hours before the game, Luka Doncic attended an after-practice interview, where he was asked what most fans were itching to know – his take on the GOAT debate. The burning question was not an easy one for the Mavs guard, since he has endorsed both superstars on various occasions. While playing the game of This or That, the interviewer posed a challenging question in front of him. The journalist asked him, “LeBron or Jordan”. The four-time NBA All-Star put an end to the discussion with a single-word response. “Both“, replied the point guard.

While he cannot choose between the two best players that have ever graced the hardwood, his appreciation for both superstars is apparent. However, his relationship with MJ goes beyond basketball.

Luka Doncic’s collaboration with His Airness

The Slovenian basketball sensation signed a five-year, $75 million shoe deal with Nike’s Jordan brand in 2019. With this partnership, he became the first-ever European player to sign a signature shoe deal with Jordan. He recently signed an extension with the brand that will be in effect until 2029. After Luka 1 was a soaring success, Jordan brand followed up with Luka 2 inspired by the serene Lake Bled on September 14th.

The brand came up with an innovative marketing strategy for the latest release. Brand Jordan orchestrated a 3?3 basketball tournament on a floating court at Lake Bled. The matchup was also followed up by a thrilling dunking contest.

Read More: 282 Days After Joining James Harden in the Elite List, Luka Doncic Draws Parallels to the Former MVP from the Ex-NBA Champ: ?Same Exact Player?

Although it is undoubtedly difficult for the young superstar to pick from the greatest players the world has ever seen, his decision may have been influenced by MJ’s cultural impact on the game of basketball.

Watch this story: As NBA Preseason Kickstarts, 6x Champ Shines Bright in Abu Dhabi Moments Before Luka Doncic Battle