LeBron Imagines Teaming Up With Michael Jordan at Fanatics Fest NYC

At Fanatics Fest NYC 2025, LeBron James added a fresh twist to the ongoing GOAT debate. During a live recording of his podcast Mind the Game with Steve Nash, the Lakers superstar was asked which NBA legend he’d most like to play alongside.

“Michael Jordan,” LeBron replied without hesitation.

While he’s long acknowledged Jordan’s influence—down to wearing No. 23—this was the first time he publicly imagined them as teammates.

“When it comes to role models, no one has had the importance of Jordan. Our styles would have complemented each other—he was a scorer first, with that mentality,” LeBron explained.

Ever mindful of social media reaction, he added a playful disclaimer:

“I would pick him if I could, but I know how it works online. Everyone would say, ‘Ah, you want to play with Michael Jordan too?’ I’m just answering the question.”

The moment, alongside Tom Brady’s viral praise of LeBron as “the greatest ever,” reinforced Fanatics Fest as a stage for unforgettable sports culture moments. For LeBron, basketball greatness isn’t just a debate—it’s the vision of a partnership of legends.