Former COTY names Michael Jordan's closest match in GOAT debate (Image Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY)
Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan and LA Lakers superstar forward LeBron James are often the most discussed players in NBA GOAT debates. However, according to 1999 NBA Coach of the Year Mike Dunleavy Sr., Lakers icon Kobe Bryant is the only player who compares to Jordan.
On Tuesday's episode of FanDuel TV's "Run It Back," Dunleavy reflected on facing Jordan during his NBA playing and coaching career. He noted that Jordan's relentless competitive spirit and work ethic made him second to none.
However, Dunleavy added that Bryant, who modeled his playstyle after Jordan, is the only player who matched the six-time NBA champion's dedication to his craft.
"Michael's Michael. I mean, obviously, in my mind, the best player to ever play, and other than Michael and maybe Kobe — as far as competitors and workers, both those guys, I don't know how they did it," Dunleavy said.
