Legendary Olympian Michael Phelps sides with Michael Jordan in renewed NBA GOAT debate

The 2025-26 NBA season is in full swing, renewing the long-running debate over the league’s greatest player.

In the past two decades, much of the often spirited discussion has centered on Michael Jordan and four-time league MVP LeBron James.

Decorated former U.S. Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps suggested the six-time NBA champion Jordan was the clear leader in the league’s hierarchy. 

"[No.] 23, the original, the original GOAT," he replied, when asked at the Sports Illustrated...