Michael Porter Jr. Declares Nikola Jokic the GOAT

In a recent livestream, Michael Porter Jr., now with the Brooklyn Nets, made headlines by declaring his former teammate Nikola Jokic as the greatest basketball player of all time (GOAT). This statement has reignited discussions within the basketball community regarding the criteria for greatness, particularly in comparison to legends like Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

Michael Porter Jr. sidesteps Jordan, LeBron with Nikola Jokic GOAT claim

Nikola Jokic's achievements bolster Porter’s assertion. Since being drafted 41st overall by the Denver Nuggets in 2014, Jokic has transformed into a dominant force in the NBA. He has won three Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards (2021, 2022, 2024), a Finals MVP, and led the Nuggets to their first championship in 2023. His career averages of 21.8 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 7.2 assists, along with a 56% shooting percentage, highlight his all-around impact on the game. Notably, Jokic is the first player since Larry Bird to finish in the top two of MVP voting for five consecutive seasons.

Michael Porter Jr. calls Nikola Jokic the GOATFormer Nuggets player names Nikola Jokic as the GOATMichael Porter Jr. sidesteps Jordan, LeBron with Nikola Jokic GOAT claimSports IllustratedSports Illustrated

During the stream, Porter emphasized Jokic's unique skill set, stating, “I’m going Nikola Jokic. The reason I say that is because he could have won MVP five years in a row. Can you name another player that could’ve won MVP five years?” This perspective reflects Porter’s firsthand experience playing alongside Jokic, where he witnessed the center's ability to elevate his teammates and perform under pressure.

Former Nuggets player names Nikola Jokic as the GOAT

While Porter’s endorsement is significant, it has not gone without scrutiny. Critics argue that Jokic’s lack of multiple championships compared to Jordan’s six titles diminishes his claim to the GOAT title. The traditional metrics of greatness often prioritize championships, and many fans still view Jordan and LeBron as the definitive top players in NBA history. Porter himself acknowledged that Jordan, LeBron, and Kobe Bryant are all in the conversation, but he remains steadfast in his support for Jokic.

Michael Porter Jr. sidesteps Jordan, LeBron with Nikola Jokic GOAT claimNBA star Michael Porter Jr. crowns Nikola Jokic as GOAT, challenging Michael Jordan’s legendary status with a powerful endorsementSports IllustratedMichael Porter Jr. calls Nikola Jokic the GOATMichael Porter Jr calls Jokic the GOAT as former teammate fuels Brooklyn Nets excitement with bold praise

Porter’s declaration may signal a shift in how greatness is evaluated in the NBA. As the league evolves, the emphasis on different contributions—such as teamwork, versatility, and skill diversity—could redefine the GOAT narrative. Jokic's ability to impact the game beyond individual statistics positions him as a candidate for this new paradigm of greatness.

NBA star Michael Porter Jr. crowns Nikola Jokic as GOAT, challenging Michael Jordan’s legendary status with a powerful endorsement

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Jokic as he aims to add more accolades to his already impressive resume. Meanwhile, Porter is set to embark on a new chapter with the Brooklyn Nets, carrying the lessons learned from his time with Jokic. The ongoing dialogue about Jokic's legacy will likely intensify, especially if he continues to perform at an elite level and adds more championships to his career.

Michael Porter Jr calls Jokic the GOAT as former teammate fuels Brooklyn Nets excitement with bold praiseNBA star Michael Porter Jr. crowns Nikola Jokic as GOAT, challenging Michael Jordan’s legendary status with a powerful endorsementMichael Porter Jr. sidesteps Jordan, LeBron with Nikola Jokic GOAT claimMichael Porter Jr. calls Nikola Jokic the GOAT

• “I’m going Nikola Jokic. The reason I say that is because he could have won MVP five years in a row. Can you name another player that could’ve won MVP five years?” — Michael Porter Jr.

Michael Porter Jr. calls Nikola Jokic the GOAT

• “When you look at the way he plays, it’s not just about scoring; it’s about making everyone around him better,” — Michael Porter Jr.

NBA star Michael Porter Jr. crowns Nikola Jokic as GOAT, challenging Michael Jordan’s legendary status with a powerful endorsement