Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
type: Article
description: Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships with 5 MVP awards and a 30.1 PPG average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points and 6 MVP awards. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performances, while Kareem's longevity and consistency across 20 seasons remain unmatched.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-07-07T13:14:48.575Z
date created: 2026-07-07T13:14:48.575Z
date modified: 2026-07-07T13:14:48.622Z
content reference time: 2026-07-07T13:14:48.622Z
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 30.1 PPG average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points and 6 MVP awards. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performances, while Kareem's longevity and consistency across 20 seasons remain unmatched.
text: Career Points Scored. NBA Championships Won. MVP Awards. Career Scoring Average. NBA Finals Appearances. All-Star Selections. Career Length
conclusion text: Michael Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time due to his 6 championship rings, peak scoring dominance (30.1 PPG), and unmatched clutch performance in Finals contests—winning 6 of 6 championship series. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's legacy rests on unparalleled longevity, the all-time scoring record (38,387 points), and most MVP awards (6), making him the greatest individual scorer and most consistent player ever. Choose Jordan if you value championship success and peak dominance; choose Kareem if you value all-time statistical longevity and consistency.
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: 3 | Michael Jordan: 5 MVPs
  value reference: Michael Jordan
additional property: NBA Career Length
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 20 seasons | 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: 19 | Michael Jordan: 13
  value reference: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
additional property: NBA Championships
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 1 | Michael Jordan: 6
  value reference: Michael Jordan
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: Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 0 | Michael Jordan: 6
  value reference: Michael Jordan
additional property: Career Length
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 20 | Michael Jordan: 15
  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: 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
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: All-Star Game Selections
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 13× All-Star
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: NBA Finals Record
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 6-0 (Perfect)
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: 2.3 APG
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: Career Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 30.1
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 scoring titles
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
additional property: Career Three-Point Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 27.3%
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/kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lebron-vs-jordan
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/michael-jordan-vs-wilt-chamberlain)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lebron-vs-jordan)))
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/michael-jordan-vs-lebron-james))
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/lebron-james-vs-michael-jordan))
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/michael-jordan-vs-magic-johnson
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: Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers center (1969-1989) with 6 MVP awards and 38,387 career points.
subject of: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan
type: Person
alternate name: MJ
language: en-US
description: Chicago Bulls legend with 6 championships and 5 MVPs (1984-2003)
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 76 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: Achievements
variable measured: Regular Season MVP Awards
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variable measured: NBA Career Length
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variable measured: NBA Cup/Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
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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
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: NBA Finals MVP Awards
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variable measured: Career Points
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  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Field Goal Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Shooting
variable measured: Points Per Game Average
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: All-Star Selections
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: NBA Championships
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variable measured: Career Seasons Played
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variable measured: Career Total Points
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  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: MVP Awards
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variable measured: Finals MVP Awards
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championships
variable measured: Career Length
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variable measured: Finals Appearances
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variable measured: Championships
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  value reference: Trophies
variable measured: Career Assists
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variable measured: Career Rebounds
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Head-to-Head Scoring Average
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variable measured: Free Throw Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Shooting Efficiency
variable measured: Three-Point Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: All-Star Game Selections
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Individual Accolades
variable measured: Rebounds Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Rebounding
variable measured: Steals Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Defensive Excellence
variable measured: NBA Finals Record
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Championship Success
variable measured: Regular Season Games Played
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: NBA Career Span
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career Assists Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: NBA MVP Awards
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variable measured: Scoring Titles
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variable measured: Lifetime Net Worth
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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
  value reference: Awards
variable measured: Career Highest Assists Per Game
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Playmaking
variable measured: Career Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Career Field Goal Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Efficiency
variable measured: Scoring Titles Won
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Individual Honors
variable measured: Career Points Per Game Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Finals Win-Loss Record
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Peak Season Scoring Average
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career Games Played
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Longevity
variable measured: Career Three-Point Percentage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Shooting Efficiency
variable measured: Total Career Points
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scoring
variable measured: Most Valuable Player Awards
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  value reference: Individual Honors
variable measured: Defensive Player of the Year
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variable measured: Career Assists Average
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  value reference: Playmaking
variable measured: Career Rebounds Average
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variable measured: NBA Finals Appearances
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Finals Record (W-L)
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variable measured: Career Points Scored
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variable measured: All-Defensive First Team Selections
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: Career Seasons
  type: PropertyValue
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variable measured: All-NBA First Team
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Individual Honors
variable measured: Finals Record
variable measured: All-Time Leading Scorer
variable measured: Peak Scoring Average
variable measured: Career Points Per Game
variable measured: Career Rebounds Per Game
variable measured: Regular Season Points Per Game
variable measured: Playoff Win Percentage
variable measured: Career Playoff PPG
variable measured: Highest Single-Season Scoring Average
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: Achievements
has defined term: Individual Honors
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: Shooting
has defined term: Championships
has defined term: Trophies
has defined term: Playmaking
has defined term: Rebounding
has defined term: Shooting Efficiency
has defined term: Individual Accolades
has defined term: Defensive Excellence
has defined term: Championship Success
has defined term: Championships & Accolades
has defined term: Business & Wealth
has defined term: Defense
has defined term: Awards
has defined term: Efficiency
has defined term: Clutch Performance
has defined term: Achievement
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: Scoring Record
has defined term: All-Around Play

Achievements
type: DefinedTerm
term code: achievements
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

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

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

Championships
type: DefinedTerm
term code: championships
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

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

Individual Accolades
type: DefinedTerm
term code: individual-accolades
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

Championship Success
type: DefinedTerm
term code: championship-success
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

Efficiency
type: DefinedTerm
term code: efficiency
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

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

Scoring Record
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scoring-record
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

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-07-07T13:14:48.622Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: kareem-abdul-jabbar-vs-michael-jordan))
main entity: Who is considered the greatest NBA player of all time?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Michael Jordan is widely considered the GOAT by most basketball analysts, sports journalists, and fans. A 2022 ESPN poll of 143 NBA experts ranked Jordan #1, with 78% selecting him as the greatest ever. His 6 championships, perfect 6-0 Finals record, 6 Finals MVP awards, and peak dominance establish him as the consensus GOAT. However, Kareem's 20-year consistency and all-time scoring record earn him top-5 consideration.
    language: en-US
main entity: Why did Kareem only win 1 championship despite being the best scorer?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Kareem played primarily for the Milwaukee Bucks (1969-1975) before joining the Lakers. His Bucks era lacked supporting talent for sustained playoff runs. With the Lakers (1975-1989), he won 5 championships but shared dominance with Magic Johnson and role players. Jordan's advantage was playing on the championship-caliber Bulls with Scottie Pippen and Phil Jackson's system, which maximized his competitive advantage. Kareem's era also featured stronger defensive centers who could contain him more effectively than Jordan's guards faced.
    language: en-US
main entity: How do their peak performances compare?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Jordan's peak (1990-1993) was statistically and competitively superior: 31.5 PPG, 6.9 APG, winning 3 consecutive championships with Finals averages of 33.4 PPG. Kareem's peak (1970-1974) averaged 30.5 PPG with one championship in 1971. Jordan's Finals performances were particularly dominant—he averaged 33.4 PPG in Finals series with a 6-0 record. Kareem was more efficient over his entire career but never achieved Jordan's concentrated excellence in the highest-pressure moments.
    language: en-US
main entity: What were their key differences as players?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Kareem was a 7'2" center with the revolutionary skyhook—an unstoppable shot that evolved throughout his 20-year career. He was fundamentally sound, rarely injured, and exceptionally consistent. Jordan was a 6'6" guard with explosive athleticism, elite defense (9x All-Defensive), and clutch mentality. Jordan averaged 30.1 PPG compared to Kareem's 24.6 PPG, showing Jordan prioritized dominating in winning moments. Kareem accumulated more total points through volume over longevity; Jordan achieved higher efficiency and championship success in a shorter timeframe.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which era was more competitive?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Both eras were exceptionally competitive, but the 1990s Bulls era is often considered more challenging due to defensive restrictions. Jordan faced elite perimeter defenders like Gary Payton, Scottie Pippen, and Doug Christie who played aggressive man-to-man defense. Kareem's era (1970s-80s) had defensive centers but less athletic versatility. Modern analysis suggests the 1990s required higher overall team competition, though Kareem faced more post-presence depth. Jordan's 6-0 Finals record against the Lakers (1991, 1992, 1993) demonstrated competitive dominance across different opponents.
    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 30.1 PPG average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points and 6 MVP awards. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performances, while Kareem's longevity and consistency across 20 seasons remain unmatched.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Career Points Scored
step: Consider: NBA Championships Won
step: Consider: MVP Awards
step: Consider: Career Scoring Average
step: Consider: NBA Finals Appearances
step: Consider: All-Star Selections
step: Consider: Career Length
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Michael Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time due to his 6 championship rings, peak scoring dominance (30.1 PPG), and unmatched clutch performance in Finals contests—winning 6 of 6 championship series. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's legacy rests on unparalleled longevity, the all-time scoring record (38,387 points), and most MVP awards (6), making him the greatest individual scorer and most consistent player ever. Choose Jordan if you value championship success and peak dominance; choose Kareem if you value all-time statistical longevity and consistency.

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

Consider: NBA Championships Won
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: NBA Championships Won: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 1 championship (1971), while Michael Jordan has 6 championships (1991-1998).

Consider: MVP Awards
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: MVP Awards: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 6 MVPs (record), while Michael Jordan has 5 MVPs.

Consider: Career Scoring Average
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Career Scoring Average: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 24.6 PPG, while Michael Jordan has 30.1 PPG.

Consider: NBA Finals Appearances
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: NBA Finals Appearances: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 3 Finals (1 win), while Michael Jordan has 6 Finals (6 wins).

Consider: All-Star Selections
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: All-Star Selections: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 19 All-Star games, while Michael Jordan has 11 All-Star games.

Consider: Career Length
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: Career Length: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has 20 seasons (1969-1989), while Michael Jordan has 15 seasons (1984-1999).

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar vs Michael Jordan
type: SportsEvent
description: Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships with 5 MVP awards and a 30.1 PPG average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points and 6 MVP awards. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performances, while Kareem's longevity and consistency across 20 seasons remain unmatched.
language: en-US
start date: 2026-07-07T13:14:48.622Z
competitor: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
  type: Person
  description: Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers center (1969-1989) with 6 MVP awards and 38,387 career points.
competitor: Michael Jordan
  type: Person
  description: Chicago Bulls legend with 6 championships and 5 MVPs (1984-2003)
organizer: A Versus B
is accessible for free: true

claimreview
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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 30.1 PPG average, while Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the all-time scoring record with 38,387 points and 6 MVP awards. Jordan is widely considered the greatest player ever due to his peak dominance and clutch performances, while Kareem's longevity and consistency across 20 seasons remain unmatched.
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: 2.9

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 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

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

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

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

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%

All-NBA First Team Selections
type: PropertyValue
value: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: N/A | Michael Jordan: 10

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

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)

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Kareem Abdul-Jabbar — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Michael Jordan — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

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

Finals Record
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Clutch Performance

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

Peak Scoring Average
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Career Points Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scoring

Career Rebounds Per Game
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Rebounding

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

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

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

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