Michael Jordan Urged Media to Ease Criticism of LeBron James, Reveals Michael Wilbon

Over the years, LeBron James has tried to establish himself as a worthy contender to be the GOAT of basketball. The only problem is that his effort and claim were met by strong opposition from those who believe Michael Jordan is the one.

The Los Angeles Lakers superstar and his marketing team lobbied that his statistical accolades over more than twenty years of exceptional play were good enough to label him as the GOAT.

But critics argued that His Airness’ sheer dominance in the 13 years with the Chicago Bulls was enough to counter anything and everything the King brought to the table.

Those narratives have not changed. The more LeBron James etched records to his name, the louder his critics have become. Be it from fans or mainstream media, everyone was taking turns taking shots at the four-time champion.

I remember having a conversation with Michael, who said, ‘Hey, take it easy. When you talk about this tomorrow, take it easy on this kid. And here’s why.’ And Michael had a list of reasons for things that he really liked about LeBron James.

Michael Wilbon revealed

The veteran analyst asked fellow First Take panelist Stephen A. Smith to corroborate his claim about Jordan. The latter agreed that the six-time champion did ask members of the media to ease off on the criticism dealt towards James.

.@RealMikeWilbon shares a private conversation with Michael Jordan about LeBron James 👀 pic.twitter.com/kLxVWUQ66k

— First Take (@FirstTake) April 29, 2026

That is because he knew the perils of having trouble in the playoffs and did not want another young superstar to face it. At the same time, Michael Wilbon reminded viewers that Jordan has never resented LeBron James, and instead has always had good things to say about him.

LeBron James changes stance on GOAT debate with Michael Jordan

This conversation on First Take came up after ESPN’s Dave McMenamin published an article detailing his conversations with LeBron James. On the GOAT debate, the Lakers’ superstar said this:

I hope I made him proud at least, wearing that No. 23. I never have compared myself to MJ because our games are totally different. There are a lot of things where I would say my game is a lot different and a little better than his, but damn, he was great. We’re both great. We’re both great basketball players.

LeBron James told Dave McMenamin

The crew of First Take particularly took note of this changing stance in the superstar forward’s tone. So did most of the basketball world, as now it seemed as if James was no longer proclaiming himself as the GOAT.

Rather, he was trying to project that comparing him and Michael Jordan was like comparing apples to oranges. This change in stance could be after the latter recently dismissed the GOAT debate.

LeBron James tries to end GOAT debate involving Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan tried to end the GOAT debate on the basis that it was something that was destroying the sport he loves. Now, it seems LeBron James is harping along the same lines.

You can look at both of us and say that you love both of us without trying to criticize the other person. And usually, it’s criticizing me. But I know for sure that I’ve done my part in this journey.

James said

It seems the four-time league MVP knows all too well that the more this debate goes on, he will always be on the losing end, as most are going to criticize him first before going into specifics.

James pointed out that fans can take sides without having to get all negative. The only problem is that such statements hardly stop the debate from continuing, as that is what trends on anything basketball-related.

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