Social media is often a chaotic battleground for debates—even over lighthearted topics like hot dogs vs. hamburgers. But few discussions spark more heated arguments than the question of who is the greatest of all time, or “GOAT,” especially in sports.
In the world of basketball, the debate between LeBron James and Michael Jordan continues to dominate timelines. It’s a conversation that rarely changes minds and often fuels endless back-and-forth among fans.
So when a sports legend like Wayne Gretzky weighs in, people tend to listen.
Gretzky, widely known as “The Great One” and considered by many to be the greatest hockey player ever, recently appeared on the New Heights podcast hosted by NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce. During the episode, he was asked to name his pick for the NBA’s GOAT.
“The NBA’s pretty easy,” Gretzky replied casually. “Twenty-three, that one’s pretty easy, right?”
Both Jordan and LeBron have famously worn the No. 23 jersey, but Travis quickly clarified by saying, “Mike, yeah,” confirming that Gretzky meant Michael Jordan.
While it’s just one opinion, Gretzky’s status in the sports world gives his choice extra weight—and adds fresh fuel to the ongoing GOAT conversation on social media. Now fans are debating not just LeBron vs. Jordan, but also whether Gretzky is “right” or “wrong.”
During the podcast, Gretzky also shared his thoughts on the greatest players in other major sports leagues, including MLB, the NFL, and the NHL. Interestingly, he did not name himself as hockey’s GOAT, despite his unmatched career and four Stanley Cup titles.
Whether you agree or not, Gretzky’s pick adds a new voice—and a legendary one—to a debate that isn’t going away any time soon.
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