The never-ending GOAT debate just got another high-profile take from one of the NBA’s most respected voices.
Two-time champion and Detroit Pistons legend Isiah Thomas appeared on “Run It Back” and made it clear where he stands: in his opinion, LeBron James has officially surpassed Michael Jordan as the greatest player of all time.
“I’ve never seen a basketball player like LeBron James,” Thomas said. “There’s the eye test, and then now can we back it up with the numbers? And as I said last time I was on your show, he’s breaking every single record that’s ever been set in the game of basketball, and he’s showing up in every individual category.”
Michael Jordan (L) and Isiah Thomas (R).
Thomas continued, highlighting LeBron’s unprecedented statistical dominance at age 41 in his 23rd season:
“Rebounds, points, assists, games played, baskets made — I mean, he’s all over the board. There’s never been a player in the history of the game like LeBron James.”
“So, does that make him the GOAT?” Zeke asked rhetorically. “In my opinion, yes.”
Eye Test + Numbers = LeBron on Top
Thomas emphasized that LeBron passes both the eye test and the advanced statistical test. After breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record in 2023, James recently surpassed Robert Parish for the most games played in NBA history. At 41, he continues to produce at an elite level for the Lakers, even while adapting his game alongside Luka Dončić.
The Pistons legend also addressed the broader GOAT conversation with some humor, noting that the debate often seems limited to players around 6’6″ or under, rarely including legends like Shaquille O’Neal, Kareem, or Tim Duncan.
“I guess we only in the 6’6 category because that seems to be what the GOAT debate has been defined to the criteria,” Thomas said, drawing laughs from the crew.
When it comes to rankings, Thomas placed LeBron first, followed by Michael Jordan, with Kobe Bryant third — acknowledging Kobe as “the best imitation of the original” MJ.
Context and History Matter
While Thomas’ comments are based on statistical merit and individual greatness, longtime NBA observers know his relationship with Jordan has been complicated for decades — from their intense playoff battles in the 1980s to Thomas’ controversial exclusion from the 1992 Dream Team. That history means some fans will take his take with a grain of salt.
Still, his praise for LeBron’s longevity, versatility, and record-breaking consistency carries weight coming from a Hall of Famer who competed against the very best.
Where the Debate Stands
The GOAT conversation will never have a universal answer, but Thomas joins a growing list of respected voices who believe LeBron’s combination of statistical dominance, longevity, and all-around impact puts him at the very top.
For many, Jordan’s six championships, six Finals MVPs, and unmatched killer instinct still make him the standard. Others point to LeBron’s four titles with three different franchises, his all-time scoring record, and his ability to dominate into his 40s as the tiebreaker.
Thomas made his stance clear: LeBron James is the greatest he has ever seen.
LeBron fans, how do you feel about Zeke’s take? Does the statistical dominance and longevity outweigh Jordan’s championship pedigree for you?
The debate rages on — and it’s one of the most fun parts of being an NBA fan.