Charles Barkley Weighs In on LeBron vs. Jordan Debate

The LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan debate resurfaced on The Steam Room podcast, hosted by Ernie Johnson and Charles Barkley. A caller asked why Barkley believes Jordan had a better career than LeBron.

Barkley Dismisses the Debate

Barkley quickly brushed off the comparison.

“I don’t get into the debate between Michael and LeBron because I think it’s weak journalism. They are both great. Michael Jordan’s the best I ever played against. These young kids played against LeBron.”

A Surprising Statistic

Barkley’s attention was drawn to a stat Johnson mentioned:

“I was kind of caught off guard when Ernie said LeBron was only like three behind Jordan in 30-point games—and he’s played seven more years. That’s an astonishing stat.”

Despite LeBron’s 22-year career and 442 more games, Jordan still edges him in 30-point regular-season games—562 to 558. James only surpassed Jordan in this category during the playoffs last March.

Respect for LeBron

Barkley clarified:

“Even if you take LeBron as the GOAT, you wouldn’t have known that. I’m never gonna say anything bad about LeBron because he’s an amazing man and a hell of a player.”

Jordan’s scoring legacy remains unmatched, proving longevity isn’t always dominance.