The latest GOAT debate is growing heated, given Earvin “Magic” Johnson‘s rebuttal to Stephen Curry‘s assessment that he’s the greatest point guard in basketball history.
During an episode of Gilbert Arenas’ podcast Gil’s Arena, Arenas asked Curry about his position among point guards, prompting a nuanced response from Curry compared to his earlier remarks. Curry acknowledged his own standing in the conversation, alongside Johnson and recognizing the latter’s remarkable achievements.
“Yes, it’s me and Magic,” Curry said. “Is that the conversation? Obviously I have to answer myself. But to your point, Magic Johnson’s résumé is ridiculous. So the fact that we’re even having that conversation is a place that I never thought I’d be in.”
Johnson heard Curry’s comments and responded on his appearance on the Zach Gelb Show. Even though Gelb was careful to note that Curry was respectful of Magic, the elder statesman listed off all of his accomplishments.
“Well, do the numbers say that, Zach?” Johnson asked. “If he got more than five [NBA Finals] championships, if he got more than three Finals MVPs and three league MVPs, then he’s the greatest. Is he? If he got more than number one in assists all-time in the Finals, number two in double-doubles, number one in triple-doubles… If he got more than all those things, then he’s the best. But the last time I checked, he doesn’t. But everybody has to decide for themselves who the best is.”
Michael Jordan entered the debate that First Take had back in August 2023.
Jordan sent a text message to Stephen A. Smith discussing what he believes to be the criteria for the greatest point guard to ever play in the NBA.
“Good morning, sir. Although greatest of anything is always a debate, I beg to differ on greatest point guard of all-time and what you said,” Jordan texted. “Magic Johnson is easily the best point guard of all-time. Steph Curry is very close, but not in front of Magic. You must define point guard to really have a serious debate. Steph Curry is by far the best shooter of all time.”
For context, Smith said previously that he believes that Curry is the greatest point guard to ever play the game and His Airness wanted to let him know that there are indeed levels to this.
RELATED CONTENT: Magic Johnson Details Importance Of Commanders Ownership In Interview