So at work, we were debating who is the best basketball player of all times.
I say based on stats and championships.
I would say Micheal Jordan.

 

i'd say top 3 in the world would be...

1. Michael Jordan
2. Lebron James
3. Gay Kobe Bryant

 

Mj ftw

 

If I could start a team and could pick a player from any time, it would easily be Michael Jordan.

 

Wilt Chamberlin

 

hands down mj not even close

 

1. mj



2. kobe
3. Wilt
4. Kareem
5. Magic Johnson

dont get me wrong i love lebron, and i think he will be #2/3 in 15 years time, but im not going to pencil in a 24 yr old with 0 rings in as an all time great just yet

 

Michael Jordan no question about it

 

If I had to pencil some more in, I would say...

Larry Bird
Magic
Bill Russell (11 championships!!)
Kareem
Still not Kobe yet.... Let's see if he can win more than one championship without Shaq!!

 

Based on championships it's Bill Russell, not even close.

Based on statistics it's Wilt Chamberlain, not even close.

You really can't compare eras. Players are more athletic now, and probably play tougher defense. But back then you weren't allowed to turn the ball over on every dribble, or take three steps when driving to the basket, the way players do now.