LeBron James Reveals Why He and Michael Jordan Don’t Talk

For several years, one of the most hotly debated topics in sports has been the comparison between Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James and former Chicago Bulls star Michael Jordan. Various debate shows featuring personalities like Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith, Shannon Sharpe and Nick Wright have discussed who the greatest player of all time is.

Supporters of James often highlight his longevity in the league. He has played 22 seasons and is the all-time leading scorer. Additionally, he ranks fourth in assists and has achieved numerous accolades, including four MVP awards, four Finals MVPs, four NBA championships, 21 All-Star selections and 20 All-NBA team selections.

On the other hand, advocates for Michael Jordan emphasize his perfect 6-0 record in the NBA Finals. Jordan is ranked fifth all-time in scoring and has won five MVP awards, six Finals MVPs and 10 scoring titles. He was also a 14-time All-Star with 11 All-NBA team selections and was named first-team All-Defensive Team nine times.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23).

Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

James appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show,” where he discussed his relationship with Jordan.

“We are in a good spot,” James said. “I mean, we don’t talk. Because I’m still playing. I’m still playing, focused on my craft right now … I think it’s because I’m still playing, and we all know MJ; even if you don’t know him personally, he’s one of the most ruthless competitors there is. Until I’m done, and he doesn’t have to look at me running down the court in No. 23, and every time my name is mentioned, it’s mentioned with his, he’s like, ‘I don’t want to (expletive) talk to you.’”

James noted that he and Kobe Bryant shared a similar relationship. He mentioned that they weren’t close for most of their careers but grew closer while playing together on Olympic teams in 2008 and 2012. Even during that time, their relationship was more competitive than friendly. However, it wasn’t until Bryant’s retirement and James’ subsequent joining of the Lakers that their bond truly deepened, just before Bryant tragically passed away in 2020.

James shared how meaningful it was to interact with Jordan and other basketball legends during the NBA’s 75th-anniversary celebration, where both players were honored as one of the top 75 players of all time. Although James has not announced his retirement plans, he is tied for the most seasons played in NBA history. This suggests that retirement might be on the horizon. When he eventually decides to retire, there may be hope that he and Jordan can put aside their competitive rivalry and become closer in the future.