Why Michael Jordan is the GOAT: Kenny Smith’s Perspective on the Golden Era of the 90s

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Kenny Smith, a former NBA player and analyst, recently discussed his views on why Michael Jordan is considered the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) and why the 90s era remains the Golden Era of basketball. As a former teammate of Jordan at the University of North Carolina, Smith offers a unique and personal perspective on Jordan’s dominance, skillset, and impact on the game.

Smith begins by emphasizing Jordan’s versatility and all-around skillset, which he believes sets him apart from other basketball legends. While players like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James were certainly dominant, Smith argues that Jordan was the most “complete” player ever to step on the court. According to Smith, Jordan’s ability to excel in every aspect of basketball — offense, defense, passing, and leadership — made him the most well-rounded player of all time.

Smith also reflects on Jordan’s time in college at the University of North Carolina, where he developed a solid foundation in the fundamentals of the game. During this period, Jordan was exposed to different defensive schemes and systems that helped him become an even more well-rounded player when he entered the NBA. Smith credits Jordan’s three years of college experience as a crucial factor in shaping his basketball IQ and making him nearly flawless as a player when he entered the pros. He believes if Jordan had entered the NBA sooner, his dominance would have been even greater.

When comparing Jordan to other greats like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, Smith highlights Jordan’s superior fundamental skills. While LeBron’s basketball IQ is often praised, Smith argues that Jordan was the most fundamentally sound player he had ever seen. Jordan’s footwork, ball handling, and defensive positioning were second to none, which allowed him to control the game in ways other players could not.

A key topic that Smith touches on is the impact of the hand-check rule, which was in place during Jordan’s era. He argues that without the hand-check rule, modern players like Steph Curry and Kyrie Irving would be even more skilled. The hand-check rule allowed defenders to get physical with offensive players, which made it harder to maneuver and create plays. Smith believes that Jordan’s ability to adapt and thrive in such a tough environment proves his greatness. The absence of hand-checking in the modern game has made it easier for today’s players to showcase their skills without as much resistance, thus boosting their individual performances.

Smith also reflects on Jordan’s impact defensively. He recounts how coaches would run plays with specific strategies based on where Michael Jordan was positioned on the floor. Jordan’s presence on defense was so imposing that it affected the opposing team’s strategy before they even began their offensive possession. Smith argues that, while LeBron James excels in many areas, it’s on the defensive side of the ball where Jordan separates himself. His defensive ability was as lethal as his offensive game, allowing him to dominate both ends of the court.

The conversation also touches on the evolution of the game and how the role of specialists has changed. In Jordan’s era, players had to be well-rounded, able to contribute in multiple areas, and play both offense and defense at a high level. Today, the rise of specialists who focus solely on certain aspects of the game, like shooting or defense, has changed the dynamics of the sport. Smith believes that players who were able to excel in all facets of the game, like Jordan, set a higher standard for what it means to be a true basketball player.

Finally, when asked to choose between Michael Jordan and LeBron James for one game, Smith confidently chooses Jordan. While he acknowledges LeBron’s longevity and his incredible career, Smith argues that in a one-game scenario, he would always choose Michael Jordan because of his killer instinct, versatility, and ability to rise to the occasion. Smith acknowledges LeBron’s greatness in terms of his longevity and ability to play at a high level for such a long time, but he believes Michael Jordan’s peak was unparalleled.

In conclusion, Kenny Smith makes a compelling case for Michael Jordan’s status as the GOAT, emphasizing Jordan’s well-rounded skillset, defensive prowess, and impact on the game. While the 90s will forever be remembered as the Golden Era of basketball, Jordan’s influence continues to resonate with players and fans alike. His unmatched dominance during his prime, coupled with his mentality and ability to perform on the biggest stages, solidifies his legacy as the greatest basketball player of all time.

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