
via Getty
NASHVILLE, TN – JUNE 24: Team 23Xi co-owner Michael Jordan on pit road prior to qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Ally 400 on June 24, 2023 at Nashville SuperSpeedway in Lebanon, TN. (Photo by Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

via Getty
NASHVILLE, TN – JUNE 24: Team 23Xi co-owner Michael Jordan on pit road prior to qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Ally 400 on June 24, 2023 at Nashville SuperSpeedway in Lebanon, TN. (Photo by Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
In the realm of basketball, few debates rage as passionately as the one concerning the GOAT. Legends are pitted against legends, statistics are dissected, and fans passionately defend their chosen players. One man, however, had the honor and pressure of actually choosing his pick between two NBA giants?Michael Jordan, the undeniable icon himself.
A resurfaced clip from 2013 showcases Jordan’s humorous yet intriguing take on the LeBron James versus Kobe Bryant rivalry. This throws a surprising name into the mix.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Jordan Declares Durant as GOAT in Candid Interview
In 2013, the basketball world was firmly in the grip of a LeBron James and Kobe Bryant Goat Debate. Amidst this ongoing rivalry, Michael Jordan is a figure universally synonymous with basketball excellence.

via Getty
NASHVILLE, TN – JUNE 24: Michael Jordan looks on during qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Ally 400 on June 24, 2023, at Nashville Superspeedway in Lebanon, TN. (Photo by Jeffrey Vest/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Delving into the question more seriously, Jordan dissected the contrasting strengths of LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. With 2013 as the backdrop, LeBron cemented his unbeatable reputation on the court. Bryant, (34) clinched his fifth championship, showcasing his enduring prowess even in the twilight of his career.
Jordan found himself confronted with an unexpected question during an interview with Ahmad Rashad while promoting NBA 2K14. Asked to choose between LeBron and Kobe, Jordan threw a curveball that had everyone laughing?he picked Kevin Durant!
Reporter asks Michael Jordan: Kobe or Lebron?
Michael Jordan says: Kevin Durant!
pic.twitter.com/YQDVfIn4yi? DurantMuse (@DurantMuse_) August 20, 2023
“Kobe or LeBron, well I’d say… Kevin Durant“. As Jordan Delves into the question more seriously. He said, “In terms of dominance in the game of basketball at this stage, it?s LeBron. Championship-wise, it?s Kobe,”
The complexity has changed since the interview. Heated discussions that once included LeBron, Kobe, and even Jordan himself ensued. Each generation has produced its very own precise figures, whose conversations now span generations. The mention of Kevin Durant by Jordan reveals the Slim Reaper’s future trajectory.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Durant’s Championships Solidify Jordan’s Pick
Yet after 10 years of that interview, Durant won the championships with GSW continuously. And selected as the NBA all-star by this, he already cemented his spot as a dominant figure in the NBA.
As the ongoing debate rages on, one truth remains constant?Michael Jordan’s pick of Kevin Durant over LeBron James and Kobe Bryant reflects the nuanced nature of the GOAT discussion. The interview from 2013, preserved in that resurfaced clip, adds an intriguing chapter to the ongoing saga of the NBA’s greatest.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What do you think about the GOAT debate? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Read More: Stephen Curry vs Magic Johnson: Who?s the GOAT PG?
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT