Greatest Basketball Players of All Time
Bill Russell or Michael Jordan
Pick Your Favorite
VS
Your GOAT List
Why This Battle Matters
Is the court big enough for two kings? Today, GoatWars stages a monumental clash between Bill Russell, the ultimate champion with a staggering 11-ring collection, and Michael Jordan, the embodiment of basketball brilliance and global sports icon. Each player not only defined an era but reshaped the contours of the game itself. Russell's defensive dominance and leadership contrast sharply with Jordan's offensive artistry and killer instinct. What’s truly at stake? It's a battle for the soul of basketball history—will fans lean towards the stoic sentinel of the 60s or the electrifying energy of the 90s? This confrontation begs us to question, what really makes a player the greatest?
🔥 Fan Takes
How Fans Are Voting
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Michael Jordan over Bill Russell when it comes to the greatest Basketball Players of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Michael Jordan 89.5% of the time over Bill Russell.
Across all battles:
Michael Jordan win rate: 83.9%
Bill Russell win rate: 41.7%
Fan FAQs
Who's the #1 contender on GoatWars in the Greatest Basketball Players of All Time league?
Currently, Michael Jordan is dominating as the top contender in the Greatest Basketball Players of All Time league. Check out his current standing and more on the GOAT List.
What makes Bill Russell so revered among basketball fans?
Fans adore Bill Russell for his incredible legacy of leadership and winning mentality, securing 11 NBA championships during his career. His contributions to the sport go beyond just his on-court performance, as he was also a trailblazer for civil rights and social justice, deeply respected both on and off the court.
Why is Michael Jordan winning by so much in his matchup against Bill Russell?
Michael Jordan's overwhelming lead in this round can be chalked up to his iconic status as a cultural phenomenon and his universally acclaimed game style. His air-defying dunks and clutch performances have a massive nostalgic and emotional appeal that resonates with a broad fan base.