Michael Jordan recently addressed the ongoing debate between the modern NBA and his era with a definitive statement. In his view, comparing the two is challenging due to the evolution of the game over the decades. Jordan emphasized that while the game has undoubtedly changed, the core elements of basketball—skill, dedication, and competition—remain the same.
Jordan acknowledged that the current NBA features a faster pace, advanced analytics, and a different style of play, including an emphasis on three-point shooting. He pointed out that the players today are more athletic and the training techniques are more sophisticated, leading to an elevated level of performance. However, he also highlighted that the game he played in required its own unique skills and attributes. The physicality of his era, combined with the less advanced training methods, made the achievements of players like him particularly impressive.
The debate often centers on whether players from Jordan’s era would have been as successful in today’s game and vice versa. Jordan’s stance is that greatness transcends eras. He suggested that if today’s players had been around during his time, they would have adapted and thrived, just as he and his contemporaries would have adjusted to modern styles of play.
In essence, Jordan’s perfect answer is that basketball greatness isn’t confined by era-specific styles or rules. Instead, it is defined by a player’s ability to excel within the context of their time while adapting to the evolving nature of the sport. His perspective bridges the gap between past and present, underscoring that the essence of greatness remains constant.