LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan (Images Credit: Getty Images)

The debate over the greatest of all time in any sport always generates excitement, with fans eager to voice their opinions. In basketball, Michael Jordan and LeBron James are central figures in this discussion. Nearly everyone, from fans and players to analysts, likes to include them in the conversation about who deserves the title.

Recently, NFL star Maxx Crosby joined the conversation during his appearance on The OGs Podcast. When asked about his pick for the greatest NBA player of all time, Crosby leaned towards Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant over LeBron James.

“My GOAT list, I’m taking Kobe over LeBron. I think LeBron, like I respect his greatness, like he is top three, no question,” Crosby said.

“But if it really comes down to it, like in my opinion, you got Game 7 on the line. I am taking MJ; I am taking Kobe if I want to win a title. That’s just my opinion,” he added.

However, NBA fans were not happy with Crosby’s selections. Many believe that he lacks sufficient basketball knowledge as an NFL player to weigh in on the GOAT debate.

Some of the argue that, similar to Magic Johnson and Rashad McCants, Crosby’s choices were influenced more by personal sentiment than by statistical analysis.

However, Crosby got some backing from a positive fanbase. They supported the Las Vegas Raiders star in the comment, hailing the late basketball legend.

LeBron James’ Confident Pre-Draft Comments on Inside the NBA Come Back to Light

LeBron James’ position in the GOAT debate may be up for discussion, but one thing that undeniably sets him apart is his unwavering self-confidence. This trait has been evident since the very beginning of his career, even before he officially entered the NBA.

Three weeks before the 2003 NBA Draft, LeBron appeared on TNT’s ‘Inside the NBA‘ to discuss his future in the league. With remarkable poise, the young star boldly claimed that he was ready to take on a significant role with the Cleveland Cavaliers, who were expected to select him.

“Wherever they need me to play, I think I can provide. I think for the Cavs, I’m going to make an impact immediately because I think our team couldn’t get any worse than last year. I’m just going to try to make the biggest impact I can this year. Try to make my teammates better and also myself,” he said.

LeBron’s confidence proved to be well-founded. He quickly became a key player for the Cavaliers. During his first stint with the Cavaliers, LeBron led the team to a winning record. After returning to Cleveland for a second stint, he guided the Cavaliers to an NBA championship in 2016.