Michael Jordan set a standard in the NBA that’s nearly impossible to match, but that hasn’t stopped countless players from trying. Whether it was the way he dominated on the court, his competitive fire, or his off-court swagger, many have tried to capture that same magic, often with mixed results. Some came close, while others fell a little short, but all of them believed they could carry the mantle left by His Airness.
From flashy guards to high-flying forwards, these players brought their own unique styles to the game but always seemed to invite comparisons to MJ. Here’s a look at 20 players who, at one point or another, genuinely thought they could be the next Michael Jordan.
20. Harold Miner
Dubbed “Baby Jordan” for his dunking prowess, Harold Miner had the hops but never quite found the all-around game to match MJ. Despite winning two Slam Dunk Contests, his NBA career fizzled out quickly.
19. Jerry Stackhouse
Stackhouse had the scoring touch and the competitive fire, but his career was more about volume than efficiency. He put up points in bunches but never quite reached Jordan’s level of dominance.
18. Vince Carter
With his Air Canada nickname and jaw-dropping athleticism, Vince Carter had Jordan-like moments. But he evolved into more of a three-point specialist later in his career, carving out his own unique path.
17. Grant Hill
Before injuries slowed him down, Hill was viewed as the heir to Jordan’s throne, with a smooth game and incredible versatility. Unfortunately, his body didn’t hold up long enough to fully deliver on that promise.
16. Kobe Bryant
Perhaps the closest we’ve ever seen to a true Jordan clone, Kobe Bryant mirrored MJ’s intensity, footwork, and competitive spirit. He even matched Jordan’s title count, but always had to live in his shadow.
15. Tracy McGrady
McGrady had the scoring prowess and athleticism to be the next Jordan, but injuries and playoff struggles kept him from reaching that level. Still, his prime years were something to behold.
14. Latrell Sprewell
With a fierce competitive streak and high-flying dunks, Sprewell had some Jordan-esque moments. But his off-court controversies and fiery personality made him a different kind of star.
13. Allen Iverson
Iverson had the swagger and scoring ability to stand out in a Jordan-dominated era, but his game was more streetball than textbook fundamentals. Still, he remains one of the most iconic players of his generation.
12. DeMar DeRozan
Known for his mid-range game and footwork, DeRozan’s game clearly draws from Jordan’s style. While he’s been a star in his own right, the title success has eluded him.
11. Dwyane Wade
Wade had the athleticism and clutch gene to draw comparisons to MJ, especially during his early Miami years. While he built a Hall of Fame career, he never quite reached Jordan’s individual dominance.
10. Penny Hardaway
Hardaway had the size, skill, and charisma to be the next Jordan, but injuries derailed what could have been an all-time great career. He’s still a legend in Orlando, though.
9. Richard Jefferson
Jefferson had the hops and two-way skills to be a star, but his game never quite reached Jordan’s level. He eventually found his groove as a role player and broadcaster.
8. Brandon Roy
Roy had the smooth, effortless game that made some wonder if he could be the next great shooting guard. Sadly, knee issues cut his career short just as he was hitting his stride.
7. Michael Finley
Finley had the athleticism, scoring touch, and defensive chops to be a star. He had a long, successful career, but never quite reached that Jordan tier.
6. Jerry West (as an executive)
As a player, West was more of a contemporary to Jordan’s predecessors, but as an executive, he chased the next Jordan relentlessly, drafting Kobe and building dynasties.
5. Clyde Drexler
Drexler had the athleticism and scoring ability to go toe-to-toe with Jordan, but he always seemed to come up short in their head-to-head battles. Still, a Hall of Famer in his own right.
4. Paul George
With his two-way skill set and flashy highlights, George once looked like he could be the next great wing. But injuries and playoff struggles have kept him from reaching those heights.
3. Jimmy Butler
Butler’s intense work ethic and leadership have drawn Jordan comparisons, but his game is more grit than flash. He’s built a legacy as one of the toughest competitors in the league, though.
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2. Kawhi Leonard
Known for his two-way dominance, Leonard has been called the next Jordan for his clutch performances and Finals MVPs. But his quiet demeanor and frequent injuries have kept him from fully embracing that role.
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1. LeBron James
LeBron’s game is different from Jordan’s, but the comparisons have followed him his entire career. He’s built his own legacy, but the MJ vs. LeBron debate will likely never end.
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