Ah, the age-old debate. For at least 7 years now, if not longer, the questions have raged on. Who is the NBA GOAT? Is it Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan? Or, is it the man responsible for bringing the Cleveland Cavaliers its first championship, LeBron James? While a definitive answer based on basketball might be impossible to decide, surrounding factors might soon be entering the equation.

The iconic #23s are some of the best players to ever grace the hardwood. As such, products and memorabilia associated with their careers are often in high demand.

Michael Jordan Rookie Card auctioned

Collecting sports memorabilia is a tradition unto time itself. Whether it’s shoes, jerseys, or rookie cards, fans want to be as close to their heroes as possible. However, the market for the auction industry has seen a major boost due to sports-centric auctions. The Iowa State Treasurer’s Office found a near-mint condition Michael Jordan rookie card in its collection of safety deposits. Upon further inspection, details about the card became public.

While getting the GOAT’s signature further gave beauty to the card, its own beauty is worth mentioning.

With just minor specs of wear on the edges, the collectible drew an 8.5 grade out of 10. Michael Jordan‘s autograph stands front and center over the image of himself. The 21/23 edition number is also present in the lower right corner.

Due to the near-perfect condition and the name of His Airness associated with it, the card could fetch up to $500,000. However, that number falls way short of another rookie card that sold at a record $1.8 million. Unfortunately for the $2 billion man, it belonged to his GOAT rival.

The LeBron James rookie card

At the Goldin Auctions in 2020, Lob.com CEO Leore Avidar bought the LeBron James rookie card. Setting the record for the most expensive basketball card ever, the price was a shocking $1.3 million more than MJ’s is expected cash out.

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However, using rookie cards as a judgment for GOAT standards remains iffy. While fans on either side try to add more factors to their respective cases, including shoe sales, keeping the conversation strictly basketball is essential.

Otherwise, the 2-time Champion with the Miami Heat easily wins the rookie card argument, while Mike easily sweeps the sneaker sales discussion. However, the conversation remains more nuanced between the current Los Angeles Laker and former Chicago Bulls legend.

Perhaps, someday we’ll get an official verdict. Until then, the debate rages on. Whose side are you on? Mike or James?

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