Jordan entered the NBA as the third pick in the first round in 1984.
For the first six years, he couldn't defeat the Pistons. He underwent rigorous training, eventually defeating them and securing a three-peat, becoming an invincible presence in the NBA.
Feeling invincible, he chose to retire.
After returning to the NBA, Jordan lost to the young Shaquille O'Neal. He trained hard again, led the team to a 72-win season, swept O'Neal in the playoffs, and secured another three-peat.
Feeling unbeatable again, he lost the motivation to move forward, and his legend came to an end.
Although Jordan created many miracles, peaks are meant to be surpassed, and records are meant to be broken.
So, how can one surpass Jordan?
One needs to meet the following eight conditions:
1. Be the absolute core of the team.
From the moment Jordan joined the Bulls, he was the core of the team. To surpass him, one must always be the absolute core of the team, even if they switch teams.
2. Win 10 scoring titles in their career.
The scoring title symbolizes a player's offensive ability. While defense is crucial in basketball, scoring more points is necessary to win games. The scoring title represents dominance on the offensive end, the ability to tear apart opponents' defenses, and influence games. Additionally, scoring titles are awarded on a single-season basis, preventing players from accumulating points over many years.
3. Win championships while being the scoring champion.
While the scoring title can deter most opportunists, some tanking teams might allow their core players to take excessive shots, disrupting team chemistry and tactical systems. Jordan could win both the scoring title and championships, indicating that his scoring contributed to the team's tactical execution. To surpass him, one must not just be a stat-padder.
4. Win at least six championships, including consecutive wins.
Jordan entered the Finals six times and won each time, achieving two three-peats. To surpass him, one must at least win consecutive championships. If not a three-peat, then a four-peat plus a two-peat is necessary. If switching teams, the total number of championships must exceed six.
5. Not be eliminated in the Finals.
Jordan was never defeated in the Finals. To surpass him, one must not be eliminated in the Finals, and the Finals should not go to Game 7.
6. Be invincible in their era.
This means winning MVPs, scoring titles, and being selected to the All-NBA First Team, among other individual honors. During their peak, no other dynasty teams should emerge, and they must not be defeated by opponents.
7. Win six consecutive mid-season tournament championships.
The mid-season tournament is a future direction for the NBA, which Jordan never experienced. Thus, successors need to win six consecutive mid-season tournament championships to be convincing.
8. Drive a massive commercial leap for the NBA.
Jordan globalized the NBA, making it a household name. His dunks became the NBA's hallmark. To surpass him, one must again influence the world on this scale.
Curry has a chance but lacks media favor. It will be increasingly difficult for others to drive such a commercial leap for the NBA. However, heroes are born from their times, and perhaps a miracle will happen.
Do you think anyone will surpass Jordan in the future?
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