Trump: 'I only like people that like me' in LeBron vs MJ debate

President Donald Trump injected himself into the ongoing LeBron James versus Michael Jordan debate on Friday, telling reporters he sides with Jordan because, as he put it, “I only like people that like me.” The comments came during a White House press conference shortly after James announced he would sign with the Philadelphia 76ers for his historic 24th NBA season, a move that sets up a potential final chapter for the league’s all-time leading scorer.

LeBron chooses Philadelphia

James ended weeks of speculation on Friday, posting on social media that he would join the 76ers on a two-year, $8 million contract with a player option, according to ESPN. The 41-year-old said he is not motivated by money or family but by a desire to sacrifice, work, and compete for another championship. “I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energise a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time,” he wrote. The decision concludes an eight-year stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he delivered a title in 2020, and adds to a career that included two separate runs with the Cleveland Cavaliers and four years with the Miami Heat.

Trump’s take on the GOAT debate

When asked by Fox News’ Peter Doocy to settle the greatest-of-all-time question, Trump did not hold back. “Michael Jordan is a guy that’s a friend of mine. I play golf with him. He’s a really good guy. I think LeBron is – maybe he’s a racist, but maybe he doesn’t like Trump. I don’t know. I only like people that like me, so I would say Michael Jordan all the way.” The remarks came against a backdrop of political tensions between James and Trump. James has endorsed Democratic presidential candidates in each of the past three elections—Hillary Clinton in 2016, Joe Biden in 2020, and Kamala Harris in 2024—and previously criticized Trump for rescinding a White House invitation to the Golden State Warriors in 2017 after Stephen Curry said he would decline.

A legacy of longevity

James, who entered the league as the No. 1 overall pick in 2003, continues to defy age. He earned a record 22nd consecutive All-Star selection last February, averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over 60 games. He also set the NBA record for the longest career last year, surpassing Vince Carter’s 22 seasons, and became the first father-son duo to play together in a regular-season game with his son Bronny in October 2024. Despite his age, James remains an elite performer, though his season ended with a second-round playoff sweep at the hands of the eventual champion New York Knicks.

What’s next for the 76ers and James

Philadelphia enters the 2026-27 season with renewed hopes of ending a 43-year championship drought. The 76ers secured the seventh seed in the playoffs last season via a play-in tournament before falling to the Knicks in the second round. James’s arrival instantly elevates their title prospects, though questions remain about how he will mesh with the young core. For James, this move represents a final push for a fifth championship. “I thought I was done when the season ended. I wasn’t ready to announce it, and I knew I needed some time to really decide, but I was pretty sure I played my last game,” he said. “The last few weeks have really been special. I’ve never been able to have no clue what to do and take real time to just think. I’ve had an incredible few months with all the people I love trying to figure it all out.” As the NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Philadelphia to see if James can deliver one last triumph.