Passing of the Torch: Who will define the future of the NBA?

Aaron Paxton Arnold 

Where I’m From There’s Only One G.O.A.T! 

In one of Jay Z's classic songs, Where I'm From, he paints an epic picture of what it's like to be from Marcy Projects in Brooklyn as he exclaims, "I'm from where ******* pull your card, and argue all day about - Who's the best MC's, Biggie, Jay-Z, and Nas? Well, where I'm from, the South Side of Chicago, they argue about who's the best – Jordan, Kobe, or LeBron. 

I am Aaron Paxton Arnold, and to an extent, a basketball savant and historian. I am a fan of the game and biased to one player in THE GOAT convo. Michael Jordan! Not only do I have a geographical bias, but MJ is also my fraternity - brother—a lot of bias right off the bat. 

As someone who grew up in the 90s watching six parades come through Chicago, there is NO argument about who's the GOAT. However, depending on who you ask, regardless of age and geography, the answer will vary as much as the players themselves. 

Besides the stats and never losing in the NBA finals ( like those who followed MJ), Michael Jordan was the first player to literally change "The Culture" and truly pave the way for not only the league but for players and brands alike. 

Kobe was MJ reincarnated, won 5 rings (and lost in the finals twice). He was a better shooter than both LeBron and Jordan. While I can't put LeBron as the GOAT due to him losing in the finals several times, he definitely took lessons from Jordan and Kobe on and off the court.

He gave the game and culture of basketball his own unprecedented contributions that will go unmatched. That, and LeBron's longevity, makes for a great neck-and-neck argument for him being the GOAT. In addition, LeBron is a sponsor of my alma mater, Florida A&M, so I salute that brother and enjoy his overall impact on the culture even more so than Jordan. 

However, I am loyal, and most of us are not wearing LeBron’s or Kobe’s on our feet; we are wearing Jordans...that in itself speaks volumes. After all, Kobe wore an MJ jersey after his first championship, and LeBron wore 23 to pay homage to the GOAT - MJ!  

But I wonder what my colleagues Will Ayers and Jackie Rae have to say about this. Maybe they'll say I am misguided and know nothing about what I speak of, LOL. Or, they may co-sign my astute, spot-on, and somewhat biased opinion. 

Anthony Edwards: The NBA’s Future Hails from Atlanta

By Will Ayers

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, a new star is on the rise, and his name is Anthony Edwards. As the league anticipates the inevitable passing of the torch from the iconic LeBron James, Edwards has emerged as the player poised to carry the mantle of the league's face and its undisputed best player. This anticipation is not just grounded in his on-court prowess but is a result of a unique combination of skills, personality, marketability, and the roots he has established in his hometown of Atlanta.

On-Court Brilliance

At the heart of Edwards' claim to the NBA throne is his electrifying on-court performance. As the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, the 6'4" shooting guard wasted no time making an impact. Known for his explosive athleticism, remarkable scoring ability, and a penchant for highlight-reel dunks, Edwards quickly became a fan favorite. His offensive versatility and defensive tenacity make him a force to be reckoned with, drawing comparisons to the very player he is poised to succeed, LeBron James.

Edwards' rookie season was a testament to his potential, averaging over 19 points per game and showcasing a maturity and understanding of the game that belied his age. With each game, he seemed to grow more comfortable, demonstrating a confidence and skill set that are essential for a player destined to lead the league.

Marketability

Beyond the court, Edwards possesses a charisma that resonates with basketball enthusiasts and a broader audience. His infectious personality and genuine love for the game make him a marketable star. In an era where athletes are judged not just by their athleticism but also by their off-court appeal, Edwards stands out as a player who can connect with fans personally.

From engaging social media presence to captivating interviews, Edwards has demonstrated a media-savvy approach that aligns seamlessly with the demands of a league where stars are not only athletes but also influencers and ambassadors for the sport. This marketability is a crucial factor in the NBA's transition from one era of superstars to the next, and Edwards seems ready to step into that spotlight.

Atlanta Roots and Community Impact

Edwards' connection to his hometown of Atlanta adds another layer of significance to his potential ascent to NBA stardom. Growing up in a city known for its vibrant culture, Edwards carries the torch for a community that has produced numerous basketball talents. His success became a source of inspiration for aspiring young athletes in Atlanta, further embedding him in the hearts of local fans.

Moreover, Edwards has already shown a commitment to making a positive impact off the court. Whether through community initiatives or charitable work, he is building a legacy that extends beyond basketball, aligning with the values of community engagement that are increasingly important in the modern NBA.

There can only be one King

By Jackie Rae

Before I dive into my thoughts regarding who LeBron will pass the torch to, allow me to set the tone. I am sitting in my home office, drinking tea from my Goat James mug, beneath my wall canvas of LeBron James becoming the NBA All-Time (not to be broken in my lifetime) leading scorer. The icing on the cake — I am a Sketchers and Adidas person—the three pairs of Nike’s I do have, LeBron 1,2 and 3. So, I’ve already debunked a portion of Aaron’s theory. But let us continue.

I have to say, as I prepared to write who I think is next in line to receive the crown that LeBron created, I didn’t even consider Anthony Edwards. While he is still not my selection, it’s only because LeBron will have to pass the crown within the next two, maybe three years. But as Will pointed out, Edwards has all the makings of a Hall of Fame basketball player. 

Not only from the way he plays the game but also his command and leadership in the locker room. Right now, he is just a kid having fun playing the game he loves, which is exactly how it should be. In five years, he could be the one who steals the crown, but he is not the one who can take it now. Instead, let’s Knight him Prince Edwards.

Now, let’s get to Aaron’s theory that Michale Jordan can never pass the torch because he is the one true GOAT. First, that is simply not how torches work. They are always passed. Not to mention, saying that Michael Jordan is the only GOAT is a theory with several holes. When was the last time you saw a goat alone? Unless it has been domesticated, goats run in backs. They learn from each other. So it stands to reason that Michale Jordan aspired to be Bill Russell.  

I always find it curious that “historians” will see Jordan's six championships as the reason he is the goat but forget that Bill Russell won 11. One could ask the obvious question: why couldn’t Jordan carry his team to more than six NBA finals? It is a feat to say that he played and won six, but LeBron has carried his teams to 10 NBA finals.  

Let’s not forget  LeBron’s basketball IQ; his ability to see every player on the floor and make them better is a sight that we have never seen before and may never see again. And he is all-encompassing. While LeBron continues to speak out about injustices that face the Black community and send Black and brown kids to school, Jordan refused to speak out when Back children in the inner cities were killing each other over his shoes. This is your GOAT!

LeBron’s legacy currently doesn’t have an end in sight. With Brony and Bryce leveling their game up each year, we will be saying the phrase “King James” for years to come. Much like the days when Pippen solidified Jordan’s legacy — Larsa Pippen’s relationship with Jordan’s son Marcus — is doing her part to assist in the Jordan conversation. 

But the whole premise of this series is to provide conjecture as to who we think will be the one to carry the torch or wear the crown once LeBron retires. That is a difficult question. I can say with the utmost conviction that Anthony Davis is not it. Anyone else, and I am on the fence.

Let’s say that the torch must be passed in the next two to three years. The player I believe is the closest to having a career spurt and comfortably carrying the torch is Giannis Anteokoumpo. Physically, Giannis has some similarities to LeBron James. He came into the league as a skinny kid, happy to play the game. He has since evolved into a physically dominant force who is hard to contain.  He is a two-time MVP who currently leads the Milwaukee Bucks in blocks, triple-doubles, free throws made and attempted, and minutes. Earlier this year, he became the youngest player in NBA history to record more than 16,000 points, 7,000 rebounds, and 3,000 assists.

Let’s address the goat in the room. The Bucks's complete failure to advance beyond the first round last season is a ding in the would-be king’s armor. Sure, winning back-to-back titles is hard, but given that the team retained most of the 2021 Championship team, it was expected. Perhaps Damian Lillard will be to Giannis what Pippen was to Jordan, and we can carry on with LeBron passing the torch to the Greek Freek.

Or maybe Aaron is right. There is only one true King. All hail LeBron James.