When Magic Johnson talks about the NBA, people listen.
He’s one of the greatest players of all time, so his opinion is greatly respected by everyone, even when it creates controversy.
Johnson recently stated a bold take that has NBA fans talking.
He spoke about the GOAT of the NBA and listed the usual suspects.
“It would have to be Michael Jordan. Then LeBron and Kareem,” Johnson said.
Magic Johnson on the GOAT:
“It would have to be Michael Jordan. Then LeBron and Kareem.” pic.twitter.com/Hfm8UB2ef3
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 2, 2025
Like many NBA pros, Johnson said that Jordan did things that others simply could not.
He said that we have never seen anyone who played like Jordan, before or after him.
He was, of course, physically incredibly gifted, but was also a great on-court thinker.
Jordan could create a strategy on the floor instantly, and his mind worked better than nearly all his opponents.
The numbers and trophies speak for themselves, and it’s no surprise Johnson highlighted Jordan.
There may not be another player just like Jordan, but LeBron James definitely comes close.
He has a different physical build, but he also has a brilliant basketball mind and one of the highest IQs the league has ever seen.
And of course, Johnson also spoke about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who is surely on the Mt. Rushmore of most NBA fans.
Johnson’s take isn’t very controversial because a lot of people list these three when they talk about the GOAT of basketball.
But it’ll start a conversation among fans who feel that Johnson forgot stars like Kobe Bryant, Larry Bird, Bill Russell, and others.
Additionally, many others would also add that Johnson should have included himself on this list.
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