NBA Analyst Skip Bayless Believes LeBron James Has ‘Eclipsed’ Michael Jordan in a Distinct Category

During the 1990s, Michael Jordan was the face of the league and played a crucial role in globalizing the league. However, after Jordan’s retirement, people were already looking for the “Next MJ.” While many players have tried to fill in the shoes of MJ, but only a handful of players such as LeBron James have come close to MJ’s level.

Even before entering the league, LBJ was touted as the next big thing in the league. He had a huge burden on his shoulder and he fulfilled those expectations for the most part. In fact, even today, many are debating who is the GOAT of NBA? Is it Michael Jordan or LeBron James?

With James entering the 18th season of his career this year, he is inching closer to MJ. Can he surpass Jordan someday? Well, that’s for the fans to decide.

Skip Bayless on Michael Jordan and LeBron James

While NBA analyst Skip Bayless has always favored MJ in the GOAT debate. He recently took the side of LeBron in one aspect. In the latest episode of “Undisputed,” Bayless said:

“I have nothing but the highest regard and respect for what LeBron [James] has accomplished off the court. It’s staggering to me. He shattered the mold, he blazed trails, nobody has blazed. That’s a figure, that $1 billion. He has eclipsed Michael Jordan off the court.

Michael invented, created the sneaker industry — he is the sneaker industry. And there was Space Jam. That’s Michael. But LeBron went in every direction. Michael didn’t have such a vast portfolio.”

LeBron has always been a great investor in his career. Along with his astounding salary earnings, James has earned most of his fortunes off the court. While Michael Jordan’s sneakers are a brand in itself, it was not until he retired from the league that MJ started making a fortune off of them.

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In LBJ’s case, he is already close to passing the $1 billion mark in career earnings. What are your thoughts on LeBron James being on pace to pass this milestone? Let us know your views in the comments section down below.