“LeBron James has been more influential than Michael Jordan”: Stephen A Smith’s highly contentious take on the difference in impact between Bulls legend and Lakers star

LeBron James has received a nod of approval in the GOAT debate from a guy who typically falls on the Michael Jordan side – Stephen A Smith.

James is often said to be one of the greatest off-court athletes of all time. His complete disregard for President Trump‘s vaunted position while criticizing his actions is just one of these things. Although LeBron did mess up massively by speaking pro-China, most of his other public activities are beyond reproach.

MJ was never the type to really go out of his way to make a political statement. He’s worked for social justice behind the scenes a lot – especially after retirement. Michael Jordan has sponsored hundreds of college kids’ education over the years and will continue to do so.

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Stephen A Smith on LeBron James vs Michael Jordan

In last morning’s episode of First Take, Stephen A was redoubtable in his praise of LeBron:

“I would never put LeBron James ahead of Michael Jordan under any circumstances. But I must confess in the aftermath of George Floyd’s killing and all the social justice issues that have taken place, you start thinking about what the nation needs. It’s not to say that Jordan was silent or voiceless because he certainly was not.”

“But LeBron being younger, being a part of today’s generation with the advent of social media and beyond. Taking into account his reach and willingness to be a face and a voice to so many issues. These are very very pertinent in this nation right now and throughout the world right now.”

“I would have to give him that edge and I’ve never felt that way before until recently. In terms of what’s transpired. I always think about pioneers who led the way, you never wanna dismiss their contributions before you take the opportunity to really elevate or appreciate someone else because the pioneers who set the table played a profound role.”

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