Michael Jordan, the legendary Chicago Bulls star, dominated the NBA in the 90s, captivating audiences and boosting viewership as the league’s main attraction. Widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan’s popularity has waned since his prime. Recently, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas made bold statements about Jordan, challenging the enduring reverence for his legacy.
Gilbert Arenas joined Dwight Howard on the podcast ‘Above The Rim with DH 12’ where he talked about Michael Jordan. Arenas expressed his belief that Jordan’s popularity has declined since the 90s and that his name remains relevant today primarily due to LeBron James. He also noted that individuals in their 60s are the ones who frequently discuss Jordan in today’s era.
You take away all the ni**** that's over 60 years old speaking on TV. They will never bring up Michael Jordan because he is not real today. He's real like we know who he is, but the only time people bring him up is when LeBron James' name gets. That's the only reason Michael Jordan's name is relevant.Gilbert Arenas said
Arenas later even praised LeBron James and even stated that James was a hybrid between Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan entering the draft. Agent Zero also spoke about how the GOAT of the sport changes once every new generation comes.
Throughout the years, NBA fans and analysts have debated about who is the GOAT. The main two names between which the GOAT debate revolves are Michael Jordan and LeBron James. James and Jordan have both made monumental contributions to the sport of basketball during their successful careers, and they also share a deep respect for each other.
Gilbert Arenas was present at the 1999 Michael Jordan basketball camp
Before reaching the NBA, Gilbert Arenas was one of the best young college stars. Many scouts targeted Arenas for his exceptional skills as a guard. Arenas discussed his time at Michael Jordan’s basketball camp on a Podcast with Dwight Howard. He recalled his time at the Jordan’s basketball camp.
Arenas recalled that at the camp, Jordan selected 30 players, and at first, Arenas thought it was because Jordan knew about his high school achievements. He soon realized, however, that Jordan was picking players he considered weak shooters, so he could dominate offensively. Despite this, Arenas emerged as a standout and even earned Jordan’s recognition.
In 2001, the Washington Wizards drafted Arenas as their next big star after Jordan. Arenas quickly took charge, elevating the franchise beyond what Jordan had achieved. By 2005, he led the Wizards to their first playoff appearance in eight years, establishing himself as one of the league’s top guards alongside Kobe Bryant.