Danny Green’s got a front-row seat to the GOAT debate, and he’s not holding back. As a three-time NBA champion who’s played with LeBron James, against Kobe Bryant, and grown up idolizing Michael Jordan, Green’s perspective is as unique as it gets. On the “All The Smoke” podcast with Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes, he laid it out: “My GOAT is MJ. I think [LeBron James] has the greatest career of all time. I’mma go one and two, MJ then Bron. I think [Bryant] probably is the most skilled out of all three.” It’s a take that’s got layers, and it’s hard to argue with his reasoning.
Green’s choice of Jordan as the GOAT is rooted in history. Jordan’s six championships, all with the Chicago Bulls, and his dominance in the 1990s are legendary. Green, who celebrated a national title at Jordan’s alma mater, North Carolina, grew up watching that era unfold. It’s a nostalgia that’s hard to shake, and for many, Jordan’s legacy is untouchable. But Green doesn’t stop there. He gives LeBron James the nod for the greatest career, and it’s a point that’s hard to dispute. James, now 40, just earned an All-NBA Second-Team selection in his 22nd season, breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s scoring record and still being the face of the league. Four Finals MVPs, four regular season MVPs, and that 2016 championship with Cleveland? It’s a resume that screams longevity and impact. Green’s seen it up close, playing with James on the Cavaliers and winning a title with him on the Lakers in 2020. “LeBron James epitomizes longevity better than any other superstar in NBA history,” Green said, and it’s a sentiment echoed by many.
Then there’s Kobe Bryant, whom Green labels as “probably the most skilled out of all three.” It’s a nod to Bryant’s craft, his work ethic, and his ability to dominate on both ends of the floor. Green competed against Bryant early in his career with the Spurs, and he’s seen firsthand the mastery Bryant brought to the game. Bryant’s five championships, all with the Lakers, and his Mamba Mentality have cemented his place in the conversation, even if it’s more wide-ranging than Jordan or James. Green’s not just throwing out compliments; he’s giving each legend their due, acknowledging their unique contributions to the game.
The debate’s endless, of course. Jordan fans will point to his perfect 6-0 Finals record, all with one team, while James supporters highlight his 10 Finals appearances and his impact across three franchises. Bryant’s advocates will talk about his skill and clutch performances. Green’s take tries to bridge the gap, giving each their moment in the sun. It’s a perspective that’s respectful, informed, and undeniably personal. For Green, it’s not just about stats or rings; it’s about the moments, the memories, and the legacy each man leaves behind. And in a world where the GOAT debate rages on, Green’s voice is one worth listening to. Stay tuned, because this conversation’s far from over, and Green’s got the creds to keep it going.
