Who is the greatest basketball player of all time?

As the NBA season comes to a close, the debate over who the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT) in basketball is raging on. With countless players throughout history making their mark on the game, it's a question that has sparked endless discussions and debates. While Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are often considered the most frequently mentioned contenders for the title of the GOAT in NBA history, there are other players who have also made their mark on the game and deserve to be mentioned in the conversation.

Steph Curry is one of the most dominant players in NBA history, known for his incredible shooting ability and innovative style of play. He's won four NBA championships, two MVP awards(One being unanimous), two final’s MVPs and is a seven-time NBA All-Star. Curry's impact on the game can be seen in the way that teams now prioritize three-point shooting and ball movement. His ability to change the game with his shooting and his leadership on and off the court make him a strong contender for the title of the GOAT.

Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in 2020, was one of the most talented players in NBA history. He won five NBA championships, two Finals MVP awards, and was an 18-time NBA All-Star. Bryant's work ethic and dedication to the game were unmatched, and his impact on the game can be seen in the way that many current players model their game after him. His tenacity and competitive spirit make him a strong contender for the title of the GOAT.

Wilt Chamberlain was a dominant force during his time in the NBA, known for his scoring ability and rebounding prowess. He won two NBA championships and four MVP awards, and holds numerous NBA records, including the record for most points scored in a single game (100). Chamberlain's athleticism and strength were unmatched during his time in the league, and his impact on the game of basketball cannot be ignored.

Michael Jordan, often referred to as MJ, is arguably the most iconic player in NBA history. During his career, he won six NBA championships, five MVP awards, and ten scoring titles. He was also a 14-time NBA All-Star and is widely regarded as one of the most clutch players in NBA history. Jordan's impact on the game and his transcendent talent have led many to view him as the best to ever play the game.

LeBron James has made a strong case for himself as the GOAT. Over his career, James has won four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and is a three-time NBA Finals MVP. He's also been named to the All-NBA First Team a record 13 times. James is known for his all-around game and his ability to dominate on both ends of the court. Not to mention he is now the all-time leading scorer in NBA history. His longevity and consistency have also been factors in his case for being the best of all time.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's career accomplishments cannot be ignored. He won six NBA championships, six MVP awards, and was the all-time leading scorer in NBA history with 38,387 points. Abdul-Jabbar's skyhook is one of the most iconic shots in NBA history, and his longevity and consistency over his 20-year career make him a strong contender for the title of the GOAT.

So, who is the greatest of all time? It's a difficult question to answer definitively. All six of these players have had a profound impact on the game of basketball, and each has left an indelible mark on the sport in their own unique way. However, if we had to pick just one player, we would have to give the nod to Michael Jordan. Jordan's impact on the game of basketball transcends just his on-court accomplishments. He brought a level of excitement and energy to the game that hadn't been seen before, and his influence can still be felt today. From his iconic dunk from the free-throw line to his game-winning shot in the 1998 NBA Finals, Jordan's clutch performances and ability to rise to the occasion in big moments cement his place as the GOAT. In the end, the debate over who the GOAT is will continue for years to come, but for now, Michael Jordan can rightfully claim the title as the greatest player in NBA history.