Phil Jackson, a revered figure in the basketball world, rarely undermines the achievements of modern NBA icons such as LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. Nevertheless, Jackson firmly holds the view that Michael Jordan’s legacy and influence in the sport are unparalleled and will remain unsurpassed.
Jackson’s belief is rooted in his intimate experience coaching Jordan during their time with the Chicago Bulls. While he acknowledges the remarkable careers of both Kobe and LeBron, Jackson maintains that Jordan possessed a unique blend of qualities that set him apart as an NBA superstar. According to Jackson, despite the possibility of other players breaking some of Jordan’s records or even winning more championships, Jordan’s overall impact and image in the sport are irreplaceable.
During an interview with Bulls.com in 2009, Jackson reflected on this sentiment, saying, “They may be able to break a record he had or maybe win more championships. Michael was 28 when he won his first championship, and LeBron could win one before he reaches that age and have a chance at winning more than six. But Michael’s image as a player will always stand and his greatness will never be superseded.”
Jackson also mentioned that among contemporary players, Kobe Bryant is often recognized for his relentless work ethic and unwavering pursuit of excellence. This recognition was shared by Jordan himself, who once told Jackson that Kobe was the only player deserving of a comparison to him due to his dedication and effort. “I never said Kobe was better than MJ,” Jackson recalled. “MJ just told me Kobe’s the only one to have done the work to deserve comparison.”
Jordan’s contributions to basketball extend far beyond his personal accolades. He elevated the sport’s level of play, setting new standards for athleticism, skill, and competitiveness. His influence also crossed international borders, turning basketball into a global phenomenon and inspiring countless young athletes worldwide. Although both Bryant and LeBron have made significant impacts in their own eras, Jackson asserts that he has not seen any player influence the game as profoundly as Jordan did.
In Jackson’s view, Jordan’s impact on the sport is unmatched and likely to remain that way. “I don’t think anybody will ever really touch what Michael has done for the game,” Jackson concluded. His statement underscores the belief that Jordan’s legacy in basketball is not just a matter of championships and records, but also of his unique contribution to the sport’s growth and global reach.
