Ray Allen argued that LeBron James isn’t the greatest player because he doesn’t tick certain boxes to be considered the sport’s best.

The title of the NBA’s GOAT has continually pitted Michael Jordan against LeBron James and each other’s supporters have reasons to believe that one is better than the other. Now and then, fans, analysts, and ex-players engage in the debate, and recently Ray Allen weighed in on the same.

Ray Allen apparently couldn’t resist the urge when asked by a passionate fan about his take on the GOAT debate. Allen argued that LeBron James isn’t the greatest player because he doesn’t tick certain boxes to be considered the sport’s greatest.
Is he (LeBron James) a great free-throw shooter? Is he a great 3-point shooter? Is he a great dribbler? So you’re saying he’s the GOAT, but he ain’t even as great in all those categories.

Ray Allen said to a fan
Ray Allen explaining why Lebron isn’t the goat 👀 pic.twitter.com/5eLzGHyBJz

— Fastbreak Hoops (@FastbreakHoops5) September 7, 2024
The three-pointer legend however picked Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan as his GOAT choice over King James. Although his choice seemed contradictory as His Airness wasn’t also the best in the categories he listed. MJ’s career saw him average 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists.

LeBron James may not have the six NBA titles MJ has but his longevity and relevance at the age of 39, have made him an outstanding candidate in the eyes of most fans. His career average of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists is also impressive, but maybe not enough to convince his former teammate.
LeBron James responds to ‘no skill’ narrative about him
Despite being one of the sport’s greatest players, LeBron James has always constantly had cause to defend his legacy. He recently had to respond to false allegations that claimed he had no skillset to his game.

James wasn’t going to let the narrative slide without presenting evidence to dispel the false narrative. As such, he shared a video on his Instagram story originally created by the user, ‘lbjhistory’ that displayed how the league’s leading scorer creates separation with tidy footwork and speed as he gets past opponents.

Pure brute strength and just running people over my whole career! No skill detected.
LeBron James wrote in his Instagram story caption
LeBron James (via Instagram story)
Furthermore, James revealed what he wants to be remembered for when he finally decides to end his career despite all the constant criticism. He would be competing in his 22nd season as a professional and it would even be more fun as he would finally achieve his long-held ambition of playing alongside his eldest son, Bronny James.