NBA Hall of Famer Reggie Miller offered a definitive stance in the ongoing GOAT conversation, selecting Michael Jordan as the best player in basketball history while acknowledging LeBron James’ unparalleled career.
During an appearance on the All The Smoke podcast, Miller separated career achievement from pure basketball dominance, stating, “LeBron has the greatest career, but Mike is the best player.”
Miller, who faced Jordan throughout the 1990s and played against a teenage LeBron during his final NBA season in 2004–05, noted that his perspective is shaped by direct experience against both legends.
He emphasized that James’ ability to remain elite in his 22nd season at age 40 deserves respect, calling out critics who downplay the Lakers star’s sustained excellence.
“He’s in year 22, 40 years old, putting up 25, 8, and 8—first or second team All-NBA,” Miller pointed out, noting that many former players weren’t even performing at that level during their peaks.
Miller’s remarks reflect a growing trend among former players who view Jordan as the superior individual talent while recognizing James’ extraordinary durability and statistical longevity.
James, who currently holds the NBA’s all-time scoring record and is still producing at an All-NBA level, continues to build his résumé with each passing season.
Jordan, on the other hand, remains the gold standard for many due to his six championships, five MVPs, and undefeated Finals record.
Miller’s take underscores the generational divide in the GOAT debate, with some valuing championship dominance while others lean on career accumulation and longevity.
