Former NBA stars divided on LeBron James, most influential player since M.J.

LeBron James’ new podcast is shaking up the NBA world. On Tuesday, James dropped the first episode of the Mind The Game podcast, teaming up with retired NBA star JJ Redick. In this episode, LeBron reveals who he thinks is the most influential NBA player since Michael Jordan. “Steph and Allen Iverson are two of the most impactful guys in our game since I’ve been watching.”

The Lakers superstar’s comments sparked a heated debate among former NBA stars Gilbert Arenas, Kenyon Martin and Rashad McCants. On the latest episode of Gill Arena, the star-studded panel was split on choosing LeBron, Stephen Curry and Allen Iverson as the most impactful players since Jordan. Rashad McCants disagrees with LeBron and cites Kobe Bryant as the person he considers most influential. “Kobe Bryant transcended so many things.”

McCants reminded the panel about Kobe’s five championships, loyalty to the Lakers, impact on women’s basketball, and several other key aspects of what makes the Black Mamba great.

However, NBA legends Gilbert Arenas and Kenyon Martin sided with LeBron and picked Steph and AI because of their high correlation. Martin said most of the world’s population is closer to Steph and AI’s status, making it easier for them to relate to young athletes. “More kids think they can be Steph Curry than LeBron James.” Martin said.He also reveals how artificial intelligence taught him and a million others “You don’t have to abide by this corporate approach.”

Gilbert Arenas also agreed with LeBron and Kenyon, telling McCants that the number of championships was not a factor in this discussion. It’s more about which superstars changed the game and how people behaved. In his opinion, Stephen Curry and Allen Iverson are the best at this.

LeBron James might be right about Stephen Curry and Allen Iverson

Despite the heated debate, LeBron may be right about Steph and the impact of artificial intelligence on basketball. When Allen Iverson entered the league in 1996, he immediately became a fan favorite. People love AI for its unapologetic nature, cool tattoos, and crazy streetball action on the court. Even though Iverson didn’t win any championships during his Hall of Fame career, fans still adored him.

Meanwhile, Stephen Curry changed the way basketball is played around the world. Steph gave the NBA a new formula for winning championships with his alien-like three-point shooting ability. What’s more, since they are 6 feet tall, fans believe they can be just like Steph and AI. Stephen and Iverson’s impact on basketball transcends their on-court accolades, and they are rightfully the most influential players since Michael Jordan.