In every era of basketball, there are a few messiahs who emerge. In the old-school period, there were the likes of Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kobe Bryant. Taking their works forward are the modern-day greats such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and more. Each molding an untouchable legacy of their own. However, what would happen if the two eras collided?
To the shame of basketball fans, there is no way, at least for now, to see them clash in an all-out brawl. However, when has improbable ever stopped the followers from engaging in a well-rounded debate?
NBA fans side with Michael Jordan and Shaquille O’Neal over LeBron James-Stephen Curry duo
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ESPN once again did the honors of proposing a fantasy matchup. This time, it was a clash between six MVPs. On one side were the old-school legends. Michael Jordan, a five-time MVP, was joined by Shaq and Allen Iverson, who each won the prestigious award once in their career.
Taking them on were today’s basketball knights. The trio included Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Each of these players has achieved the rare feat of defending their place as the league’s most valuable player.
Both teams are loaded with prowess on either side of the floor. For the 90s stars, it starts with Iverson. AI was an offensive phenom hanging around with the most elite of scorers. Then there is Michael Jordan. We all know about his scoring prowess, boasting the highest career scoring average in NBA history. Moreover, he was an equally lethal defender, trapping his man in his clutches. Finally comes Shaquille O’Neal, the man among boys. In his prime, no force could hold the 7-foot legend.
On the other side, they have a combination of generational talents. LeBron James excels in all aspects of the game. A four-time MVP, and a four-time Finals MVP, the King stands in a class of his own. The Greek Freak is the only star who Shaq sees as having a close resemblance to himself. He even gave up his Superman title to the two-time MVP. Then there is basketball’s greatest shooter, Stephen Curry. They say 3s are better than 2s, and no one can drill that point better than the NBA’s all-time three-point leader. But whose side did the fans take?
Fans seem to be certain about one team’s victory
If they ever met on the court, which side would emerge victorious? Shockingly, it was quite a one-sided debate this time. The purists felt Shaq, His Airness, and The Answer would maul over the modern-day trio.
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“no disrespect Giannis can’t lick the bottom of Shaq shoe,” wrote one fan. Some fans felt there was no way of stopping the retired icons. “Unfortunately the top is unguardable in every aspect.” Another fan commented, “AI is killing Steph, MJ is beating LeBron, and Shaq is dominating Giannis.” Despite Jordan’s side being the heavy favorites, murmurs were supporting King James and his team.
“LeBron cooking MJ,” one fan confidently claimed. Another felt that LeBron and Curry on the same team would guarantee success. “I’m sorry but any team that has LeBron and Steph on the same team let alone Giannis as well is winning 100%.”
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If it ever did happen, it would have a seismic effect. Fans would put their fortunes on the line to get a glimpse of this matchup. Sadly, all that can be done is a dispute. According to you, who do you think would have won this clash of the MVPs? Let us know your views in the comments below.
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