Why does Kareem Abdul-Jabbar say Oscar Robertson is better than Magic Johnson?

The discussion about who is the best point guard of all time exists in the NBA. Even Michael Jordan himself has spoken out publicly in recent weeks about who, from his perspective, is the No. 1 GOAT.

This question must also be answered by one of the best players to ever play in the NBA, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. His answer shocked more than one basketball fan and cognoscenti, as he mentioned his former teammate with the Milwaukee Bucks, Oscar Robertson, instead of Magic Johnson, with whom he built a dynasty with the Los Angeles Lakers.

“I only had the opportunity to play with Oscar Robertson at the end of his career, but it was unbelievable. If people saw him playing in the prime of his career and shooting three-pointers… .” Abdul-Jabbar recalled reporter Justin Walters mentioning that the 1979-80 season was the first season in which the total number of shots from 6.70 meters away from the basket reached 3 units.

Robertson won a championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1970-71 season with Abdul-Jabbar and retired in the 1973-74 season.

To many, the words were seen as a swipe at the former center’s disdain for Magic Johnson as they won five NBA championships and made nine Finals appearances together. In addition, “Magic” also won three regular season MVP awards and three Finals MVP awards.

After realizing the impact of his remarks, Abdul-Jabbar wanted to end the controversy through a video posted on social networks.

“A few days ago, I picked Oscar Robertson as the best point guard of all time, but Magic Johnson should be the priority because I played with him and we won five championships. He’s my favorite. Good teammate. So I can’t put anyone before him. Magic. But I have to give Robertson credit for being a well-rounded player and a role model for a lot of people,” Abdul-Jabbar clarified.