Matt Barnes feels LeBron James is the all-time NBA GOAT when considering both on and off-the-court achievements.

For most fans and analysts, the GOAT debate primarily revolves around individual accolades and championships, so LeBron James and Michael Jordan are often considered the top two frontrunners. However, Matt Barnes has voiced his frustration over how the media world, especially the non-athletes, conveniently overlooks Kobe Bryant in these discussions.

Speaking on the ‘Gils Arenas’ Show, the 2017 NBA Champion emphasized how players who played with, against, or even just watched KB24 drew inspiration from his ‘Mamba Mentality’ – a mindset that inspired everyone to elevate their game. Barnes argued that this generational impact is something “The King” never possessed to the same extent. As a result, he didn’t hesitate to proclaim the “Black Mamba” ahead of James at the pinnacle of basketball, purely from an on-court-influence standpoint.

“I feel the three greatest players of all time are MJ, Kobe, and Bron. So, to me, you can throw any of those three up and however you slot them, I don’t have an issue with that. I feel like outside, the non-athletic media, always kind of leave Kobe out of the top five, or sometimes the top 10. It’s crazy because the guys that have played with him or against him understand what he was about,” Barnes said. “To me, Kobe is ahead of Bron, doesn’t mean I dislike Bron…When it comes to basketball, it’s MJ, Kobe and then Bron is a respectful third.”

Barnes on where LeBron edges over Kobe

Both MJ and Kobe had off-court controversies – whether it was the five-time MVP’s gambling speculations or the 18-time All-Star’s sexual assault case in 2003. However, Barnes acknowledged the flawless image that LeBron has maintained for over two decades, ensuring he was never involved in any scandal.

Moreover, given how the four-time MVP has successfully guided his son to the most-storied franchise, positioned himself as a future franchise owner, and is still actively pursuing a championship in Year 22, the Barnes applauded James Sr. as the undisputed GOAT when considering off-the-court values and achievements as well.

“I think Bron is the f***ng incredible. For him to be still doing what he’s done and the doors he has opened, got his son on the (Lakers) team. He is gonna be the owner of the Vegas franchise when that sh*t happens,” Barness added. “I think (when considering) on and off the court, Bron is probably the all-time GOAT.”

As Barnes indicated, Jordan and Kobe inspired future generations with their mentality and approach to the game, but LeBron has created a blueprint for modern-day superstardom. Not only has he never allowed any stains to hamper his image for over two decades, but he has also turned himself into a billionaire through strategic investments, ownership stakes, and business ventures.

More impressively, beyond that, the four-time NBA Champion continues to educate yongue players on how to prolong their careers effectively through proper dieting and body care, setting a new standard for longevity in the league.

Is Kobe over LeBron as the No. 2 GOAT contender?

Whether one agrees or not, GOAT debates typically center around accolades, records, and achievements. While Kobe was a once-in-a-lifetime player whose playing style was inspired by Jordan but uniquely refined, “The Akron Hammer’s” accomplishments are undeniable. From being the league’s all-time leading scorer to ranking fourth in all-time assists and sixth in steals, James continues to show immense hunger and motivation. He is still in a position to chase a championship at the age of 40, which proves just how extraordinary he is as an athlete.

So, while Kobe’s legacy and demeanor might hold more sentimental value, there is now a strong argument that the 21-time All-Star has a legitimate case for being the GOAT even over Jordan.