MLS bosses' answer to the Michael Jordan vs LeBron James GOAT debate question sparks fierce debate

Fans have been reacting on social media after Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano was asked to pick between Michael Jordan and LeBron James.

On Saturday, Inter Miami were back in Major League Soccer action as they hosted Philadelphia Union at the Chase Stadium.

Thanks to goals by Robert Taylor and the returning Lionel Messi, Mascherano's men came away 2-1 winners. The visitors' goal was netted by Daniel Gazdag.

After the match, during the press conference, Mascherano was asked to pick between NBA greats Jordan and James.

The Argentine hesitated before saying: "I don't like too much basket (Basketball)."

Reacting on social media, fans were left bemused by the fact that the former Barcelona and Liverpool man was asked the question in the first place.

One fan said: "This is embarrassing."

Another tweeted: "Did I just hear a reporter ask Mascherano on the Press Conference LeBron James or Michael Jordan."

A third fan added: "This is what we’re asking MLS coaches? This isn’t a serious soccer country……"

Someone else wrote: "Still a long way to go before the U.S. truly embraces football culture. Moments like this say it all."

A fifth commented: "Take away that guys press pass what the f***."

Another fan said: "Disrespectful tbh. What if someone asks a basketball player about Messi or Ronaldo in the middle of a press conference about the match?"

I’m not even joking… pic.twitter.com/avPexvWQT5

— Matthew (@MatthewHenao3) March 30, 2025

James, 40, is currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers having won the NBA on four occasions.

He was also named NBA Finals MVP and NBA MVP four times.

Along with Jordan, who has won six NBA titles in his illustrious career, James is also seen as one of the contenders to become the undisputed GOAT of NBA.

Recently speaking about his relationship with Jordan, James said on the Pat McAfee Show: "We don't talk."

When asked why, he replied "I'm still playing. I'm still focused on my craft right now."

McAfee then questioned: "When you're one, you think you two could have a conversation?"

James replied: "I would hope so. We all know MJ. Even if you don't know him personally, he's one of the most ruthless competitors.

"And till I'm done, and he doesn't have to see me running up and down, wearing the number 23, and every time my name is mentioned, it's mentioned with his, he's like, 'I don't wanna f****** talk to you.'"