The debate over the greatest NBA player of all time often centers on LeBron James and Michael Jordan, each with passionate supporters. Newly minted Dallas Mavericks top draft pick Cooper Flagg weighed in on the discussion during the 2025 NBA Draft in Brooklyn, choosing Jordan as the GOAT despite his recent close encounters with James.
Cooper Flagg’s Clear Choice in the GOAT Debate
Flagg stated without hesitation that Michael Jordan is the greatest player ever when asked about the LeBron James NBA GOAT debate. Speaking with talkSPORT, the highly touted rookie said,
“Michael Jordan for sure. That’s the GOAT to me. I don’t know if it was how I was raised by my parents or not, but that’s just my answer.”
—Cooper Flagg, NBA Draft Pick
This declaration came after Flagg, at 18 years old, became the youngest number one NBA Draft pick since LeBron James was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers 22 years ago. Although Flagg prefers Jordan, he maintains respect for James, acknowledging similarities in the way both entered the league and developed their games.
LeBron James’s Endorsement and Relationship With Flagg
LeBron James recently praised Flagg’s potential, calling him a versatile and promising talent during the Mind the Game podcast. James highlighted Flagg’s skills, stating,
“I personally think that he wants to be great. (He is) a guy that can do so many different things on the floor. Can play with the ball, can play without the ball. His jump shot is going to continue to get better. Super athletic, quick second jump.”
—LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers Star
Last summer, Flagg faced Team USA, which included James, in a practice game ahead of the Olympic Games in Paris. Despite the opportunity to interact with one of basketball’s all-time greats, Flagg’s preference for Jordan over James remained firm.
Highlights of Michael Jordan’s NBA Career
Michael Jordan’s achievements set a high bar in basketball history, solidifying his place in the GOAT debate. His accolades include:
- 6× NBA Champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998)
- 6× NBA Finals MVP (1991–1993, 1996–1998)
- 5× NBA Most Valuable Player (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998)
- 14× NBA All-Star (1985–1993, 1996–1998, 2002, 2003)
- 3× NBA All-Star Game MVP (1988, 1996, 1998)
- 10× All-NBA First Team (1987–1993, 1996–1998)
- 10× NBA scoring champion (1987–1993, 1996–1998)
- 3× NBA steals leader (1988, 1990, 1993)
- 2× NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (1987, 1988)
For many fans and players, the answer to who the greatest is depends on both achievements and the personal influence the player had on their love for basketball. While Jordan and James dominate the debate, other legendary figures like Kobe Bryant and Larry Bird, as well as current stars such as Kevin Durant and Steph Curry, often come up in the conversation.
How Larry Bird Influenced Flagg’s Playing Style
In addition to naming Jordan as his GOAT, Flagg credits Larry Bird for shaping his approach to the game. He explained,
“The way he (Bird) played so hard on every possession. The way he was diving on the floor, doing all the little things. That’s kind of the way I modeled my game when I was younger. I think that’s why I play the way I am. I have to give credit to that.”
—Cooper Flagg, NBA Draft Pick
Bird’s reputation for relentless effort and attention to detail left a lasting impression on Flagg’s development as a player, highlighting how influences beyond just individual accolades can shape a basketball career.
Flagg’s Prospects With the Dallas Mavericks
Looking ahead, Flagg will join a Dallas Mavericks team filled with experienced champions, including Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Klay Thompson. Their presence offers Flagg an excellent environment to learn and grow as he begins his career in the NBA.
With expectations high, Flagg’s selection marks a significant moment, aligning him with past prodigies like LeBron James and setting the stage for his effort to make a lasting impact on the league.