
The NBA GOAT debate is a never-ending one. However, when it comes to Michael Jordan, the argument seems to lean in one direction – his status as the GOAT is virtually undisputed. With six NBA championships, a perfect 6-0 record in the Finals, and six Finals MVPs, MJ's legacy speaks for itself. However, it's not just his achievements that place him at the top; his unique set of skills, his athleticism, and his unmatched drive make him stand out even today.
Jordan's greatness wasn't limited to his scoring prowess or clutch performances; the blend of athleticism and skill made him a one-of-a-kind player. Standing at 6'6" with a wingspan that seemed to stretch beyond his height, Mike's physicality was a game-changer. His famous "Airness" wasn't coined out of the blue; it described his exceptional vertical leap, which helped him dominate the air during games and saw him win back-to-back dunk titles in 1987 and 1988.
33 years ago today, Michael Jordan shut down the '87 dunk contest with his iconic dunk from the free-throw line pic.twitter.com/pSn2ESvmqz
— ESPN (@espn) February 7, 2020
His 50-inch vertical leap allowed him to take flight and execute dunks that became legendary. With a career shooting percentage of 49.7 percent and an impressive 30.1 points per game average, he could score from anywhere on the court. A clutch jumper or a powerful drive to the basket, it didn't matter.
"MJ had 50-inch vert or whatever, his crazy vert was one leg, two leg, crazy big hands to be that size," said former NBA All-Star Andre Iguodala. "You know he wore size 13-and-a-half, he was naturally thin and skinny, he had to bulk up, but he truly had not one flaw in his game. And when we say game, I'm talking about his skillset and his shooting ability."
Aside from his athleticism, Michael was a player meant for big occasions. With two separate three-peats, he was the backbone of that legendary Chicago Bulls side. His ability to perform under pressure was legendary, such as when he performed "The Shot" in 1989 when he sunk a buzzer-beater over Cleveland Cavaliers guard Craig Ehlo to propel the Bulls to victory in the first round of the playoffs.
But it wasn't just the moments of brilliance that set him apart; it was his impact on the game. After retiring to pursue a baseball career, the former Defensive Player of the Year returned in 1995, and without missing a beat, he led the Bulls to another three-peat.
"What MJ meant to the game and what he did, his makeup, he was like Larry Bird said, 'God was like I'mma take my time with this one or I'mma throw him a little bit of me," Iguodala said.
The then-three-time NBA champion's return in 1995 was followed by a Finals victory over the Seattle SuperSonics in 1996, where he was named Finals MVP. That is why many, including Iguodala, view him as the undisputed GOAT.
MJ could impact the game in every aspect—scoring, defense, and leadership—and his place in history is further solidified by his unmatched legacy of championships and accolades.
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