LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan: Who Won More Across 32 Categories (Awards, Accolades, Stats)

The battle for basketball’s greatest of all time has long centered around two names: Michael Jordan and LeBron James. The ultimate competitor and six-time champion Jordan set the gold standard for dominance in the 1990s. LeBron, a once-in-a-generation powerhouse, has redefined longevity and all-around excellence.

Both have built resumes that seem untouchable, so when it comes to sheer accolades, who comes out on top? From championships and MVPs to All-Star selections and statistical dominance, let’s stack up the numbers and see who truly owns the record books.

NBA Championships

LeBron James: 4

Michael Jordan: 6

LeBron’s four championships are a testament to his sustained greatness and adaptability. Winning across three different franchises—the Heat, Cavaliers, and Lakers—he proved his ability to lead various teams to the ultimate goal. However, the asterisk some critics put on his Finals record (4-6) suggests he hasn’t always been dominant when it matters most.

Jordan’s six rings with the Chicago Bulls remain the benchmark for NBA greatness. He never lost in the NBA Finals (6-0) and dominated an era filled with Hall of Famers. His ability to consistently rise to the occasion in the biggest moments gives him a clear edge in this category.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 0-1

Finals MVPs

LeBron James: 4

Michael Jordan: 6

LeBron’s four Finals MVPs highlight his ability to take over a championship series. Whether it was his near triple-double averages in 2016 or his dominance with the Heat, he has been the best player on the court when his team wins. However, the Finals MVPs he lost, especially in series where his teams fell short, add fuel to the debate.

Jordan is a perfect six-for-six in Finals MVPs, meaning every time he won a championship, he was unquestionably the best player in the series. His ability to deliver in crunch time and put teams away cemented his reputation as the ultimate closer.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 0-2

Regular Season MVPs

LeBron James: 4 (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013)

Michael Jordan: 5 (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998)

LeBron’s four MVPs could easily be more, given how long he has dominated the league. His all-around impact—scoring, rebounding, passing—makes him one of the most well-rounded MVPs in history. However, voter fatigue and shifting narratives have arguably cost him additional awards.

Jordan’s five MVPs reflect his absolute dominance over two different Bulls dynasties. Whether leading the league in scoring or anchoring the best team in the NBA, he was widely considered the best player in the league for a decade.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 0-3

Scoring Titles

LeBron James: 1 (2008)

Michael Jordan: 10 (1987–1993, 1996–1998)

LeBron has always been an elite scorer, but he prioritizes playmaking, which has resulted in only one scoring title. His efficiency and consistency, however, have allowed him to become the all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 2023.

Jordan, on the other hand, dominated scoring like no one else in NBA history. His ten scoring titles—including seven straight in his prime—illustrate how unguardable he was. His ability to put up points against any defense (career-high 37.1 PPG in 1986-87), in any era, is unmatched.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 0-4

Assist Titles

LeBron James: 1 (2020)

Michael Jordan: 0

LeBron’s playmaking has always been one of his biggest strengths, and his 2020 assist title (10.2 APG) proves his ability to run an offense at an elite level. Of course, that was the season James won his last NBA title.

Meanwhile, Jordan was never asked to be the primary playmaker, as his role was always to dominate as a scorer. While he had solid assist numbers for a shooting guard, he never led the league in assists.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 1-4

All-NBA Selections

LeBron James: 20

Michael Jordan: 11

LeBron’s 20 All-NBA selections show his remarkable consistency. He has been one of the League’s top players for two decades, a feat no other player has achieved. His ability to remain elite for so long is a major argument in his favor.

Jordan’s 11 selections came in a shorter span but were packed with dominance. His career was split into two three-peats, with brief retirements in between, limiting his overall selections. However, when he played, he was the undisputed best.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 2-4

All-Star Selections

LeBron James: 21

Michael Jordan: 14

LeBron’s two decades (and running) of All-Star appearances are another example of his longevity. Being selected year after year, despite changes in play style and competition, proves his ability to adapt and remain among the elite.

Jordan’s 14 selections came in a shorter career, but he was the face of the event every time. His star power and ability to shine under the bright lights made the All-Star Game must-watch TV.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 3-4

All-Star Game MVPs

LeBron James: 3

Michael Jordan: 3

Both LeBron and Jordan knew how to put on a show during All-Star weekend.LeBron’s three MVPs showcase his ability to take over games in a flashy yet dominant manner, making the event an annual showcase for his skill set.

Jordan, however, treated the All-Star Game like a competitive battle. His three MVPs were earned with intense performances, including a legendary duel with Kobe Bryant in 1998.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 4-5

All-Defensive Team Selections

LeBron James: 6 (5 First Team, 1 Second Team)

Michael Jordan: 9 (9 First Team)

LeBron has been a great defender at times, especially in his Miami years, but he hasn’t always been locked in on that end. His versatility is impressive, but his defensive accolades don’t match his offensive dominance.

Jordan, however, was a relentless defender throughout his prime. His nine First Team selections and ability to shut down elite scorers solidify his reputation as an all-time two-way player.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 4-6

Defensive Player of the Year Awards

LeBron James: 0

Michael Jordan: 1 (1988)

LeBron has had elite defensive stretches, but he has never captured a Defensive Player of the Year award. Some believe he deserved one in 2013, but ultimately, he never claimed the honor.

Jordan winning DPOY in 1988 (with a league-leading 3.2 SPG) while also leading the league in scoring is one of the most impressive feats in NBA history. His ability to dominate both ends of the floor in the same season gives him a huge edge.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 4-7

Rookie of the Year

LeBron James: 1 (2004)

Michael Jordan: 1 (1985)

Both LeBron and Jordan entered the league as immediate superstars.LeBron’s rookie season was remarkable, as he took a weak Cavaliers team and turned them into a competitive squad.

Jordan’s rookie year was just as spectacular, as he instantly became one of the league’s best players. His 28.2 points per game as a rookie set the tone for his legendary career.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 5-8

Total Win Shares

LeBron James: 270.2

Michael Jordan: 214.0

LeBron’s ability to impact winning over two decades is reflected in his superior win shares total. His combination of scoring efficiency, playmaking, and versatility has contributed to team success for a longer period than any player in history.

Jordan, while trailing in total win shares, played significantly fewer seasons. His per-season impact was enormous, and his dominance in the playoffs often overshadowed what he did in the regular season.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 6-8

Career Player Efficiency Rating (PER)

LeBron James: 26.9

Michael Jordan: 27.9

LeBron’s PER is among the best of all time, a testament to his all-around greatness. His efficiency in scoring, rebounding, and passing keeps him near the top of this metric year after year.

Jordan, however, still holds the edge in PER, which speaks to just how dominant he was at his peak. His ability to consistently put up elite numbers in fewer seasons gives him a slight advantage.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 6-9

NBA Cup Titles

LeBron James: 1

Michael Jordan: 0

LeBron became the first-ever NBA Cup champion, adding another unique accolade to his resume. While the in-season tournament is still new, winning it in its inaugural season further cements his ability to adapt and dominate in new competitive formats.

Jordan never had the opportunity to compete in an NBA Cup, so while this category goes to LeBron, it’s not necessarily a knock on MJ. Had the tournament existed in the ‘90s, there’s little doubt he would have been a top contender.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 7-9

NBA Cup MVPs

LeBron James: 1

Michael Jordan: 0

LeBron added another MVP trophy to his collection by winning the first-ever NBA Cup MVP. Even in the later stages of his career, he showed that he could still dominate a tournament-style setting against the league’s best.

Jordan’s legacy was built in the playoffs and the regular season, with no NBA Cup existing in his era. While LeBron takes this category, it doesn’t necessarily shift the all-time debate significantly.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 8-9

Dunk Contest

LeBron James: 0

Michael Jordan: 2

LeBron, despite being one of the most electrifying dunkers in NBA history, never participated in the dunk contest. His in-game dunks have been spectacular, but he never put his aerial artistry to the test on All-Star Weekend.

Jordan, on the other hand, is one of the most legendary dunk contest competitors ever. His back-to-back wins in 1987 and 1988, including the iconic free-throw line dunk, only added to his mystique as a high-flying superstar.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 8-10

Player of the Week Awards

LeBron James: 69

Michael Jordan: 25

LeBron’s longevity and consistency have helped him rack up the most Player of the Week awards in NBA history. Being recognized so frequently over two decades highlights his sustained dominance.

Jordan, while playing in an era where fewer Player of the Week awards were handed out, still amassed a strong total. His peak performances were legendary, even if the award structure at the time didn’t favor him as much.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 9-10

Player of the Month Awards

LeBron James: 41

Michael Jordan: 16

LeBron holds the all-time record for Player of the Month awards, which further showcases his ability to dominate for extended stretches. Month after month, year after year, he has consistently been among the NBA’s best.

Jordan, though far behind LeBron in this category, played in an era where fewer Player of the Month awards were distributed. His prime years saw him regularly outperform the competition, even if the official recognition didn’t match today’s totals.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 10-10

Regular Season Points

LeBron James: 41,978

Michael Jordan: 32,292

LeBron is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 2023. His ability to score efficiently and extend his career has allowed him to put up an unprecedented point total.

Jordan, despite playing significantly fewer seasons, was a more dominant scorer at his peak. He led the league in scoring 10 times, while LeBron has only done so once. His scoring efficiency in an era with fewer three-point attempts is remarkable.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 11-10

Regular Season Rebounds

LeBron James: 11,686

Michael Jordan: 6,672

LeBron’s versatility has allowed him to rack up impressive rebounding numbers for a forward. His ability to contribute on the boards has made him an invaluable presence in multiple roles throughout his career.

Jordan, though not a primary rebounder, still put up solid numbers for a shooting guard. His athleticism allowed him to compete with bigger players, but this category clearly favors LeBron due to size and position.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 12-10

Regular Season Assists

LeBron James: 11,522

Michael Jordan: 5,633

LeBron is one of the greatest passers in NBA history, and his assist total reflects that. His ability to control the game as both a scorer and facilitator separates him from most forwards in league history.

Jordan was a capable playmaker, especially in later years, but his role was always to score first. He had the 1989 season where he averaged over 8 assists per game, but his assist total doesn’t come close to LeBron’s all-time numbers.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 13-10

Regular Season Steals

LeBron James: 2,331

Michael Jordan: 2,514

LeBron has accumulated an impressive number of steals over his long career, showing his defensive instincts and ability to disrupt passing lanes.

Jordan, however, holds the advantage, as he was a more aggressive and disruptive perimeter defender. His ability to lock down opponents while leading the league in steals three times gives him the edge here.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 13-11

Regular Season Blocks

LeBron James: 1,146

Michael Jordan: 893

LeBron’s ability to protect the rim as a forward gives him a clear advantage in this category. His chase-down blocks are some of the most iconic defensive plays in NBA history.

Jordan, despite being a shooting guard, was an excellent shot-blocker for his position. He consistently used his athleticism to deny taller players, but his block total is naturally lower than LeBron’s due to size and role differences.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 14-11

Playoff Points

LeBron James: 8,162

Michael Jordan: 5,987

LeBron holds the all-time record for playoff points, a testament to his longevity and postseason excellence. His ability to score at a high level in deep playoff runs has made him one of the most productive playoff performers ever.

Jordan, while behind in total points, has the highest playoff scoring average in history (33.4 PPG). His ability to take over games when it mattered most gives him an edge in peak performance, even if LeBron has the higher cumulative total.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 15-11

Playoff Rebounds

LeBron James: 2,583

Michael Jordan: 1,152

LeBron’s all-around game extends to the playoffs, where his rebounding has been crucial in securing extra possessions. His ability to dominate the glass as a forward has given his teams a major advantage.

Jordan, though not known for rebounding, was still solid for a guard. His quickness allowed him to grab key boards in clutch moments, but LeBron’s sheer volume puts him ahead.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 16-11

Playoff Assists

LeBron James: 2,067

Michael Jordan: 1,022

LeBron’s elite passing has made him one of the best playmakers in postseason history. His ability to create opportunities for teammates in high-pressure situations has been a defining trait.

Jordan’s assist numbers were strong, but he was never the primary distributor. His game was built around scoring, which kept his assist totals lower than LeBron’s.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 17-11

Playoff Steals

LeBron James: 483

Michael Jordan: 376

LeBron’s defensive IQ and ability to read passing lanes have helped him accumulate more playoff steals than anyone in NBA history. His longevity plays a key role in this total.

Jordan, however, was more feared as an on-ball defender. He had multiple playoff runs where he led the league in steals, even if his total is lower.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 18-11

Playoff Blocks

LeBron James: 275

Michael Jordan: 158

LeBron’s rim protection has been an underrated aspect of his game, especially in the playoffs. His ability to swat shots in crucial moments, including his legendary block in the 2016 Finals, stands out.

Jordan, while not a primary shot-blocker, still had great defensive instincts. However, this category clearly favors LeBron.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 19-11

Playoff PER

LeBron James: 27.9

Michael Jordan: 28.6

LeBron has been one of the most efficient playoff performers in NBA history, balancing scoring, playmaking, and rebounding at an elite level. His ability to control games across multiple series and postseason runs has made him an all-time great in playoff production.

Jordan, however, holds the edge in Playoff PER, which measures overall per-minute production. His dominance as a scorer and defender, combined with his ability to elevate his game in the postseason, gives him the advantage in peak impact.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 19-12

Playoff Win Shares

LeBron James: 58.7

Michael Jordan: 39.8

LeBron leads all players in Playoff Win Shares, a stat that measures how much a player contributes to their team's victories. His sustained excellence over countless deep playoff runs has allowed him to accumulate a massive total.

Jordan, despite playing fewer playoff games, was still highly impactful. His ability to take over games and lead his team to six championships shows that while LeBron has the higher total, MJ’s impact on winning was undeniable.

LeBron vs. Jordan: 20-12

LeBron James Has A Greater Number Of Different Accolades Than Michael Jordan, Signifying Longevity GOAT

LeBron James and Michael Jordan are the two most decorated players in NBA history, but their paths to greatness have vastly differed. Jordan dominated with an unrivaled peak, winning six championships in six Finals appearances and maintaining an unmatched intensity that made him the ultimate closer. His accolades, including six Finals MVPs, ten scoring titles, and a superior Playoff PER, solidify his reputation as the greatest pure winner the league has ever seen.

LeBron, on the other hand, has built his case through sustained longevity. With 22 seasons played and counting, he has amassed more total accolades than Jordan, leading in categories like total points, rebounds, assists, All-NBA selections, and Playoff Win Shares.

His ability to remain elite for over two decades, evolving his game while competing at the highest level, cements his case as the greatest longevity player in basketball history. While Jordan may still hold the edge in peak dominance, LeBron’s unparalleled consistency across multiple eras has made him the undisputed "Longevity GOAT."  

Credit for an idea: Hoops Hype