The most common debate in sports is about the greatest player of all time, also known as the “G.O.A.T debate”. This discourse has transcended sports, and basketball is no different. Two players that usually get compared in basketball are Michael Jordan and LeBron James. However, there are others such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who have a firm case of their own.
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Over the years, fans, media, experts, players, and coaches have all indulged in this conversation, pleading their case. Former Los Angeles Lakers player Byron Scott expressed his opinion on the topic and picked neither of the two athletes. He elected to choose his former teammate – Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the greatest when you take the full ‘body of work’
Byron Scott talked about the greatest player ever with his friend and teammate James Worthy on his podcast. While describing the reason behind his pick, Byron Scott praised Jabbar and had the following to say about him:
“One thing I always say while comparisons is that you have to take the full body of work. You got to look at what he did in high school. He lost 2 games. Look at what he did in college, he lost 1 game. Then he comes to the pros, he wins 6 MVPs and 6 championships. If you look at all the body of work, there is not a greater player. No disrespect to our boy MJ.”
Byron may have a point here. Kareem had a 71-game win streak with his high school team, leading them to three straight championships. A talented prospect out of high school, he dominated college basketball, winning the NCAA title for three consecutive years from 1966 to 1968.
Drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in 1969, Kareem played 20 seasons in the NBA. His first stint was with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he played for six seasons and won his first championship. His second stint was with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played for 14 seasons and won 5 titles. The Lakers stint saw him teaming up with legends like Magic Johnson, Jerry West, and James Worthy.
What made Kareem so special as a player and as an ambassador of the game?
Playing the center position, Kareem averaged 28.8 PPG, and 14.5 RPG and shot at an average of 51.8% from the field. At the time of retirement, he led the league in points, minutes, field goals attempted, and field goals made. His all-time points record would remain unbeaten for nearly four decades. Kareem achieved all this without a jumper and through his iconic ‘Skyhook’.
Well, if his stats on the offensive end did not impress you, the Lakers legend was equally capable at the defensive end. He is ranked third all-time in blocked shots and has been part of eleven All-NBA defensive team selections.
Off the court, Kareem is well-known and respected for his social work and has continued to stand against racism.
The greatest player debate will last forever, but Kareem’s contributions to the development of the game and the league will never be forgotten.
