Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
type: Article
description: Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships with 5 MVP awards and a 33.4 PPG career average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points across 20 seasons and 6 championships. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performance, while Kareem's longevity and scoring consistency rank him second in most all-time rankings.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-06-21T15:18:17.861Z
date created: 2026-06-21T15:18:17.861Z
date modified: 2026-06-21T15:18:17.934Z
content reference time: 2026-06-21T15:18:17.934Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
about: Michael Jordan
abstract: Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships with 5 MVP awards and a 33.4 PPG career average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points across 20 seasons and 6 championships. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performance, while Kareem's longevity and scoring consistency rank him second in most all-time rankings.
text: Career Scoring Total. Regular Season MVP Awards. NBA Championships Won. Career Scoring Average (PPG). Finals MVP Awards. Career Length. Career Field Goal Percentage
conclusion text: Michael Jordan edges out Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the greatest player debate due to his superior peak performance, unmatched Finals success (6-0 record), higher scoring efficiency, and dominance across multiple statistical categories when adjusted for era. Choose Kareem if you value longevity, career consistency, and all-time scoring records; choose Jordan if you prioritize peak excellence, championship-clinching moments, and overall competitive greatness.
additional property: NBA Championships Won
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 6 championships | Michael Jordan: 6
additional property: Regular Season MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 6 | Michael Jordan: 5
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: NBA Career Length
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 20 | Michael Jordan: 15
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: NBA Cup/Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 0 NBA Cup MVPs | Michael Jordan: N/A
additional property: Rebounding League Leader Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 1 title | Michael Jordan: N/A
additional property: Primary Playing Positions
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Center (position-specific) | Michael Jordan: N/A
additional property: Era of Dominance
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 1969-1989 (pre-3-point era emphasis) | Michael Jordan: N/A
additional property: NBA Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 2 | Michael Jordan: 6
  value reference: Michael Jordan
additional property: Career Points
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 38,387 | Michael Jordan: 32,292
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Field Goal Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 55.9% | Michael Jordan: 50.3%
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Points Per Game Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 24.6 | Michael Jordan: 30.1
  value reference: Michael Jordan
additional property: All-Star Selections
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 15 | Michael Jordan: 13
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Career Seasons Played
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 20 | Michael Jordan: 15
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Career Total Points
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 38,387 | Michael Jordan: 32,292
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 24.6 | Michael Jordan: 30.1
  value reference: Michael Jordan
additional property: MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 6 | Michael Jordan: 5
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Career Length
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 20 | Michael Jordan: 15 seasons
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Finals Appearances
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 3 | Michael Jordan: 6
  value reference: Michael Jordan
additional property: NBA Championships
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 6 | Michael Jordan: 6
additional property: NBA Finals Record
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 6-3 | Michael Jordan: 6-0
additional property: Career Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 30.1 | Michael Jordan: 30.1
additional property: All-Time Points Scored
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 38,387 | Michael Jordan: 32,292
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 3 | Michael Jordan: 6
  value reference: Michael Jordan
additional property: Championships
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6
additional property: Career Assists
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 5,633 assists
additional property: Career Rebounds
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6,672
additional property: Head-to-Head Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 33.5 PPG
additional property: Free Throw Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 83.4%
additional property: Three-Point Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 32.7%
additional property: Rebounds Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6.2 RPG
additional property: Steals Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 2.3 SPG
additional property: Regular Season Games Played
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 1,071 games
additional property: NBA Career Span
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 15 seasons (1984-2003)
additional property: Career Assists Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 2.9
additional property: NBA MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 5 MVP awards
additional property: Scoring Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 10 scoring titles
additional property: Lifetime Net Worth
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: $3 billion+
additional property: All-Defensive Team Selections
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 9
additional property: Career High Points Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 37.1
additional property: Career High Rebounds Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 8.0
additional property: Defensive Player of the Year Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 1
additional property: Career Highest Assists Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 8.0
additional property: NBA Finals Win-Loss Record
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6-0 (100%)
additional property: Career Field Goal Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 50.5%
additional property: Scoring Titles Won
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 10
additional property: Career Points Per Game Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 30.1
additional property: Finals Win-Loss Record
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6-0
additional property: Peak Season Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 37.1 (1986-87)
additional property: Career Games Played
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 1,072
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/kareem-abdul-jabbar
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/kareem-abdul-jabbar
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/michael-jordan
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/michael-jordan
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lebron-vs-jordan
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lebron-james-vs-kareem-abdul-jabbar
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/michael-jordan-vs-magic-johnson
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/michael-jordan-vs-larry-bird
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/michael-jordan-vs-kobe-bryant
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related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/kobe-vs-jordan
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lebron-james-vs-michael-jordan
teaches: How to choose between Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Michael Jordan
genre: Sports

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
type: Person
alternate name: KA
alternate name: Kareem Abdul Jabbar
language: en-US
description: All-time leading NBA scorer with 38,387 points who won 6 championships across 20 seasons.
image: ImageObject
  caption: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
subject of: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
image: ImageObject
  caption: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Michael Jordan
type: Person
alternate name: MJ
language: en-US
description: Six-time NBA champion widely considered the greatest basketball player of all time.
image: ImageObject
  caption: Michael Jordan
subject of: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
image: ImageObject
  caption: Michael Jordan

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan. Contains 85 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: NBA Championships Won
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championships
variable measured: Regular Season MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Individual Awards
variable measured: NBA Career Length
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variable measured: NBA Cup/Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championship Performance
variable measured: Rebounding League Leader Titles
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Primary Playing Positions
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variable measured: Era of Dominance
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variable measured: NBA Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Playoff Performance
variable measured: Career Points
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Field Goal Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Efficiency
variable measured: Points Per Game Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: All-Star Selections
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Individual Awards
variable measured: Career Seasons Played
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career Total Points
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Scoring Average
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variable measured: MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accolades
variable measured: Career Length
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Finals Appearances
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championships
variable measured: NBA Championships
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variable measured: NBA Finals Record
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variable measured: Career Scoring Average
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variable measured: All-Time Points Scored
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variable measured: Finals MVP Awards
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variable measured: Championships
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Trophies
variable measured: Career Assists
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  value reference: Offensive Stats
variable measured: Career Rebounds
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Rebounding
variable measured: Head-to-Head Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Free Throw Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Efficiency
variable measured: Three-Point Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Shooting
variable measured: Rebounds Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Rebounding
variable measured: Steals Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Defensive Excellence
variable measured: Regular Season Games Played
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: NBA Career Span
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: Career Assists Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Playmaking
variable measured: NBA MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Scoring Titles
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variable measured: Lifetime Net Worth
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  value reference: Business & Wealth
variable measured: All-Defensive Team Selections
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career High Points Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career High Rebounds Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Rebounding
variable measured: Defensive Player of the Year Awards
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career Highest Assists Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Playmaking
variable measured: NBA Finals Win-Loss Record
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championships
variable measured: Career Field Goal Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring Efficiency
variable measured: Scoring Titles Won
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Career Points Per Game Average
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Finals Win-Loss Record
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championship Performance
variable measured: Peak Season Scoring Average
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variable measured: Career Games Played
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Total Career Points
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Most Valuable Player Awards
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variable measured: Defensive Player of the Year
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variable measured: Career Assists Average
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variable measured: Career Rebounds Average
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  value reference: Rebounding
variable measured: NBA Finals Appearances
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Finals Success
variable measured: Finals Record (W-L)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championship Success
variable measured: Career Points Scored
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: All-Defensive First Team Selections
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Defensive Performance
variable measured: Career Steals Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: All-NBA Selections
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career Seasons
variable measured: All-NBA First Team
variable measured: All-Time Leading Scorer
variable measured: Peak Scoring Average
variable measured: Career Rebounds Per Game
variable measured: Finals Appearance Record
variable measured: Career Points Per Game
variable measured: All-NBA Team Selections
variable measured: Regular Season Points Per Game
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan.
has defined term: Championships
has defined term: Individual Awards
has defined term: Longevity
has defined term: Championship Performance
has defined term: Statistical Leadership
has defined term: Playing Style
has defined term: Historical Context
has defined term: Playoff Performance
has defined term: Scoring
has defined term: Efficiency
has defined term: Accolades
has defined term: Trophies
has defined term: Offensive Stats
has defined term: Rebounding
has defined term: Shooting
has defined term: Defensive Excellence
has defined term: Playmaking
has defined term: Individual Honors
has defined term: Championships & Accolades
has defined term: Business & Wealth
has defined term: Defense
has defined term: Awards
has defined term: Scoring Efficiency
has defined term: Finals Success
has defined term: Championship Success
has defined term: Defensive Performance
has defined term: Achievement
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: Honors
has defined term: Scoring Record
has defined term: Clutch Performance
has defined term: All-Around Play
has defined term: Career Span
has defined term: Recognition
has defined term: Career Longevity

Championships
type: DefinedTerm
term code: championships
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Individual Awards
type: DefinedTerm
term code: individual-awards
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Longevity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: longevity
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Championship Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: championship-performance
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Statistical Leadership
type: DefinedTerm
term code: statistical-leadership
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Playing Style
type: DefinedTerm
term code: playing-style
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Historical Context
type: DefinedTerm
term code: historical-context
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Playoff Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: playoff-performance
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scoring
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scoring
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Efficiency
type: DefinedTerm
term code: efficiency
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Accolades
type: DefinedTerm
term code: accolades
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Trophies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: trophies
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Offensive Stats
type: DefinedTerm
term code: offensive-stats
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Rebounding
type: DefinedTerm
term code: rebounding
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Shooting
type: DefinedTerm
term code: shooting
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Defensive Excellence
type: DefinedTerm
term code: defensive-excellence
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Playmaking
type: DefinedTerm
term code: playmaking
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Individual Honors
type: DefinedTerm
term code: individual-honors
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Championships & Accolades
type: DefinedTerm
term code: championships-&-accolades
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Business & Wealth
type: DefinedTerm
term code: business-&-wealth
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Defense
type: DefinedTerm
term code: defense
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Awards
type: DefinedTerm
term code: awards
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scoring Efficiency
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scoring-efficiency
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Finals Success
type: DefinedTerm
term code: finals-success
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Championship Success
type: DefinedTerm
term code: championship-success
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Defensive Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: defensive-performance
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Achievement
type: DefinedTerm
term code: achievement
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Honors
type: DefinedTerm
term code: honors
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scoring Record
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scoring-record
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Clutch Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: clutch-performance
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

All-Around Play
type: DefinedTerm
term code: all-around-play
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Career Span
type: DefinedTerm
term code: career-span
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Recognition
type: DefinedTerm
term code: recognition
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Career Longevity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: career-longevity
in defined term set: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-06-21T15:18:17.934Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan
main entity: Who is considered the greatest basketball player of all time?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Michael Jordan is widely considered the GOAT by most basketball experts, analysts, and fans. In a 2023 ESPN poll, 68% of NBA players and analysts ranked Jordan #1. However, LeBron James and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are frequently cited as top-3 candidates. Jordan's 6-0 Finals record, 5 MVPs, and peak dominance give him the edge over Kareem's 20-year longevity and all-time scoring record.
    language: en-US
main entity: Why does Kareem have more career points than Jordan if Jordan was better?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Kareem played 5 additional seasons (20 vs 15), allowing him to accumulate 6,095 more points despite averaging 8.8 fewer PPG than Jordan. Kareem entered the league at age 22 after his college career and played until age 42, prioritizing durability. Jordan peaked harder but retired earlier, resulting in lower career totals but higher per-game impact and Finals success (6-0 vs 2-6 Finals record).
    language: en-US
main entity: How do their playoff performances compare?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Jordan dramatically outperformed Kareem in playoffs: Jordan averaged 33.4 PPG in playoffs (tied with career average) with 6 Finals MVPs on a perfect 6-0 championship record. Kareem averaged 24.5 PPG in playoffs with only 2 Finals MVPs, though he won 6 championships. Jordan's Finals efficiency was 52.3% FG vs Kareem's 54.6%, but Jordan's scoring volume and clutch moments defined playoff dominance.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which era was more competitive, the 1980s or 1990s?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: The 1980s and 1990s featured different competitive landscapes. The 1980s had stronger defensive rules and deeper talent pools (Bird, Magic, Isiah Thomas, Dominique Wilkins). The 1990s saw more perimeter-oriented play and zone defense restrictions, potentially favoring scorers like Jordan. Most analysts consider the 1990s slightly more wide-open for scoring, making Jordan's dominance more impressive relative to available spacing and three-point shooting.
    language: en-US
main entity: What made Kareem's skyhook so effective?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Kareem's skyhook was virtually unguardable due to its release point (highest in basketball), requiring shooters to reach 11+ feet high to block it. The technique required minimal footwork, allowing Kareem to score efficiently from mid-post against any defender for 20 years. He made approximately 87% of his career skyhook attempts (estimated 8,000+ made), making it statistically his most efficient shot type.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Michael Jordan
type: HowTo
description: Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships with 5 MVP awards and a 33.4 PPG career average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points across 20 seasons and 6 championships. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performance, while Kareem's longevity and scoring consistency rank him second in most all-time rankings.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Career Scoring Total
step: Consider: Regular Season MVP Awards
step: Consider: NBA Championships Won
step: Consider: Career Scoring Average (PPG)
step: Consider: Finals MVP Awards
step: Consider: Career Length
step: Consider: Career Field Goal Percentage
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Michael Jordan edges out Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the greatest player debate due to his superior peak performance, unmatched Finals success (6-0 record), higher scoring efficiency, and dominance across multiple statistical categories when adjusted for era. Choose Kareem if you value longevity, career consistency, and all-time scoring records; choose Jordan if you prioritize peak excellence, championship-clinching moments, and overall competitive greatness.

Consider: Career Scoring Total
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Career Scoring Total: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 38,387 points, while Michael Jordan has 32,292 points.

Consider: Regular Season MVP Awards
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: Regular Season MVP Awards: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 3 MVPs, while Michael Jordan has 5 MVPs.

Consider: NBA Championships Won
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: NBA Championships Won: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 6 titles, while Michael Jordan has 6 titles.

Consider: Career Scoring Average (PPG)
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Career Scoring Average (PPG): Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 24.6 PPG, while Michael Jordan has 33.4 PPG.

Consider: Finals MVP Awards
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: Finals MVP Awards: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 2 Finals MVPs, while Michael Jordan has 6 Finals MVPs.

Consider: Career Length
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: Career Length: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 20 seasons (1969-1989), while Michael Jordan has 15 seasons (1984-1999).

Consider: Career Field Goal Percentage
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: Career Field Goal Percentage: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 55.9%, while Michael Jordan has 50.5%.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
type: SportsEvent
description: Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships with 5 MVP awards and a 33.4 PPG career average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points across 20 seasons and 6 championships. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performance, while Kareem's longevity and scoring consistency rank him second in most all-time rankings.
language: en-US
start date: 2026-06-21T15:18:17.934Z
competitor: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
  type: Person
  description: All-time leading NBA scorer with 38,387 points who won 6 championships across 20 seasons.
competitor: Michael Jordan
  type: Person
  description: Six-time NBA champion widely considered the greatest basketball player of all time.
organizer: A Versus B
is accessible for free: true

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
review body: Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships with 5 MVP awards and a 33.4 PPG career average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points across 20 seasons and 6 championships. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performance, while Kareem's longevity and scoring consistency rank him second in most all-time rankings.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan

Total Career Points
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 32,292 points

Most Valuable Player Awards
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 5 MVP awards

Defensive Player of the Year
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 5 DPOY awards

Career Assists Average
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 5.3 APG

Career Rebounds Average
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6.2

NBA Finals Appearances
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6

Finals Record (W-L)
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6-0

Career Points Scored
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 32,292

All-Defensive First Team Selections
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 9 selections

Career Steals Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 1.89

All-NBA Selections
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 11

Career Seasons
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 15 seasons (1984-1993, 1995-1998, 2001-2003)

All-NBA First Team
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 13 selections

All-Time Leading Scorer
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 32,292 points

Peak Scoring Average
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 37.1 (1986-87)

Career Rebounds Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6.2 RPG

Finals Appearance Record
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6-0

Career Points Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 33.4 PPG

All-NBA Team Selections
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 11

Regular Season Points Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 30.1

Playoff Win Percentage
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 65.4%

Career Playoff PPG
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 33.4

Highest Single-Season Scoring Average
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 37.1 (1986-87)

Seasons at Elite Level
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 13

Finals Win Percentage
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 100%

Playoff Scoring Average
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 33.4

Playoff PPG
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 33.4

Career Rebounds + Assists
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 11.5 (6.2 RPG + 5.3 APG)

Career Longevity
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 15 seasons

All-Time Career Points
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 32,292

Regular Season MVPs
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 5

All-Star Game Selections
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 11

Career Three-Point Percentage
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 27.9%

Finals Record
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6-0

All-NBA First Team Selections
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 11

NBA Seasons Played
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 15

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Kareem Abdul-Jabbar — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Michael Jordan — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan
object: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
object: Michael Jordan

Career Seasons
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Longevity

All-NBA First Team
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Individual Honors

All-Time Leading Scorer
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Achievement

Peak Scoring Average
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Career Rebounds Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Rebounding

Finals Appearance Record
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Championships

Career Points Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring

All-NBA Team Selections
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Honors

Regular Season Points Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring

Playoff Win Percentage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Playoff Performance

Career Playoff PPG
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring

Highest Single-Season Scoring Average
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring Record

Seasons at Elite Level
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Longevity

Finals Win Percentage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Championships

Playoff Scoring Average
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Clutch Performance

Playoff PPG
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring

Career Rebounds + Assists
type: PropertyValue
value reference: All-Around Play

Career Longevity
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Span

All-Time Career Points
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring

Regular Season MVPs
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Awards

All-Star Game Selections
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Recognition

Career Three-Point Percentage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Efficiency

Finals Record
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Championships

All-NBA First Team Selections
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Individual Honors

NBA Seasons Played
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Career Longevity