In NBA history, few names shine brighter than Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant. However, when it comes to trophies and awards, Michael Jordan stands tall as the most decorated of them all. With a staggering collection of accolades ranging from NBA championships to MVP titles, Jordan’s unparalleled success on the court solidifies his status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
Despite LeBron James and Kobe Bryant’s remarkable careers, Jordan’s trophy-laden reign remains unmatched, underscoring his unparalleled dominance in the basketball world. Here is the breakdown of why Jordan is the greatest player ever: he has more trophies than James and Bryant combined.
NBA Championships
Michael Jordan – 6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 9 (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020), (2000, 2001, 2002, 2009, 2010)
In terms of NBA championships, Michael Jordan secured six titles with the Chicago Bulls during the 1990s, a feat that solidified his status as one of the most dominant players in basketball history. LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, on the other hand, each boast nine championships collectively. James has won four titles with the Miami Heat and the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Bryant captured five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers.
While Jordan’s six championships are fewer than James and Bryant combined, it’s important to note that Jordan achieved his titles within a single decade, showcasing unparalleled dominance during his era. James’ championships span over multiple teams and eras, highlighting his longevity and versatility as a player. The fact that Jordan won all his titles with one team could boost his case.
NBA Finals MVP
Michael Jordan – 6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 6 (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020), (2009, 2010)
In terms of NBA Finals MVP awards, Michael Jordan holds an impressive record with six accolades earned during his championship-winning seasons with the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s. LeBron James and Kobe Bryant each have also clinched six Finals MVP awards collectively. James secured his four with the Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers, while Bryant earned his two with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Notably, Jordan’s Finals MVP awards were all achieved within a single decade, underscoring his dominance during his prime. In contrast, James’ awards span different teams and eras, showcasing their adaptability and sustained excellence. While all three players have reached the pinnacle of success in terms of Finals MVP honors, the context of their achievements adds depth to their respective legacies in the annals of basketball history.
NBA MVP
Michael Jordan – 5 (1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1998)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 5 (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013), (2008)
In the realm of NBA MVP awards, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant have all amassed an impressive total of five accolades each. Jordan’s MVP titles were earned in 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996, and 1998, further cementing his legacy as one of the most dominant players in basketball history.
Similarly, LeBron James secured his five MVP awards in 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2020, showcasing his remarkable consistency and versatility over the years. Kobe Bryant, while holding the same number of MVP titles, earned his singular award in 2008, posting 28.3 points per game. Each player’s MVP achievements reflect their unparalleled skill, leadership, and impact on the game, solidifying their places among the greatest to ever grace the hardwood.
NBA All-Star Game MVP
Michael Jordan – 3 (1988, 1996, 1998)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 7 (2006, 2008, 2018), (2002, 2007, 2009, 2011)
In the NBA All-Star Game MVP category, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant have each left an indelible mark. Jordan secured three All-Star Game MVP awards in 1988, 1996, and 1998, showcasing his dominance even in exhibition matchups. LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, however, hold a combined total of seven All-Star Game MVP titles.
James earned his three MVP awards in 2006, 2008, and 2018 while Bryant garnered his four in 2002, 2007, 2009, and 2011. Bryant’s tally of four All-Star Game MVPs ranks first all-time alongside Bob Pettit as no player has won more. James and Bryant’s collective MVP honors in the All-Star Game underscore their exceptional talent and ability to shine brightest among the league’s elite during these annual showcase events.
NBA Defensive Player Of The Year
Michael Jordan – 1 (1988)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 0
In the NBA Defensive Player of the Year category, Michael Jordan stands out as the lone recipient among these basketball legends, having won the award once in 1988. Jordan’s defensive prowess was renowned throughout his career, showcasing his ability to dominate on both ends of the court. Jordan posted 3.2 steals (league-high) and 1.6 blocks per game in that season.
On the other hand, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, while excelling in various facets of the game, have not secured the Defensive Player of the Year honor. Despite Bryant making an impressive 12 All-Defensive Team selections, he never won Defensive Player of the Year. Jordan gets the advantage from his iconic season.
NBA Rookie Of The Year
Michael Jordan – 1 (1985)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 1 (2004)
In the NBA Rookie of the Year category, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant each earned this prestigious accolade once in their respective debut seasons. Jordan claimed the Rookie of the Year title in 1985, marking the beginning of his legendary career with the Chicago Bulls.
Similarly, LeBron James received the honor in 2004, showcasing his exceptional talent and promise from the outset of his NBA journey. Bryant never won Rookie of the Year as he only posted 7.6 points per game in his first season, and was a backup to Eddie Jones to start his career.
NBA Scoring Champion
Michael Jordan – 10 (1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 3 (2008), (2006, 2007)
In the NBA Scoring Champion category, Michael Jordan stands out as the most prolific scorer among these basketball legends, having secured the title a remarkable ten times. Jordan’s scoring dominance spanned various seasons throughout his illustrious career, with consecutive titles from 1987 to 1993 and then again in 1996, 1997, and 1998.
On the other hand, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant each clinched the Scoring Champion title three times. James achieved this feat in 2008, while Bryant claimed it in 2006 (35.4 PPG) and 2007 (31.6 PPG). Although Jordan’s ten scoring titles remain unmatched, the achievements of James and Bryant underscore their prowess as elite scorers in their own right, but they pale in comparison to the GOAT.
NBA Assist Leader
Michael Jordan – 0
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 1 (2020)
In the category of NBA Assist Leader, neither Michael Jordan nor Kobe Bryant held the title during their careers. However, LeBron James secured the honor once in 2020 (10.2 APG), showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability late in his career. While known primarily for their scoring prowess, the fact that Bryant and James were able to lead the league in assists at least once underscores their all-around contributions to their teams and highlights their ability to elevate the play of their teammates.
NBA Steals Leader
Michael Jordan – 3 (1988, 1990, 1993)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 0
In the category of NBA Steals Leader, Michael Jordan emerges as the standout among these basketball greats, having led the league in steals three times during his career in 1988 (3.2 SPG), 1990 (2.8 SPG), and 1993 (2.8 SPG). Jordan’s defensive prowess and anticipation allowed him to excel in disrupting opponents’ plays and creating scoring opportunities for his team.
In contrast, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant did not secure the NBA Steals Leader title throughout their respective careers. While both James and Bryant are celebrated for their defensive contributions, Jordan’s ability to consistently lead the league in steals highlights his exceptional defensive instincts and impact on the game.
NBA Slam Dunk Contest Champion
Michael Jordan – 2 (1987, 1988)
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 1 (1997)
In the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, Michael Jordan holds a notable record as a two-time champion, securing victories in 1987 and 1988. Jordan’s gravity-defying dunks and creativity captivated audiences and solidified his status as one of the greatest dunkers in NBA history.
On the other hand, both LeBron James and Kobe Bryant only won the contest once, with Bryant claiming victory in 1997. LeBron James has never competed in the Slam Dunk Contest which is not only a shame but could be considered a black mark on his legacy considering all the greatest players ever have competed. Jordan gets the final advantage in this category.
Total Awards And Trophies
Michael Jordan – 37
LeBron James and Kobe Bryant – 33
Michael Jordan’s unparalleled dominance in basketball is reaffirmed by his status as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT), exemplified not only by his six NBA championships but also by his record-breaking 37 combined trophies. Surpassing the combined totals of LeBron James and Kevin Durant and now exceeding the combined accolades of LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, Jordan’s legacy shines brighter than ever.
His superiority is evident across various facets of the game, including scoring titles, NBA Finals MVP awards, and defensive accolades. James and Bryant were able to win a total of nine titles but they did not gain the edge in the Finals MVP category, however. As great as James and Bryant are as the best players since Michael Jordan, it is Jordan’s unmatched competitiveness, clutch performances, and relentless pursuit of excellence that set him apart from his peers, solidifying his reign as the ultimate basketball legend.