Jordan played in a time that enabled him to do much more for the game of basketball than players can do today - he increased the popularity of the sport and was the inspiration for the Lebron's and Kobe's we watch today. He was a marketing force outside of the game, and this helped create and then reinforce the whole "Jordan" mystique.

Aside from this, he was simply more fun to watch than anyone in the league before or since. There's just something compelling about the way he played the game that other players can't replicate. Maybe Dr. J is close... There was something aesthetically pleasing about how Jordan moved on the court and how he looked when he played. The iconic Jordan image on his shoes, the tongue hanging out, how he could control and move the ball due to his hand size. His physique was designed for the game of basketball.

He not only had the stats, rings, and raw talent - but all these other intangibles are what make him Michael Jordan. You couldn't fictionalize a better career, excluding his stint in Washington - so many scenes seem appropriate for an overdramatic sports movie - final shot of the sixth championship, holding the trophy and breaking down the year his father was murdered, shooting the free through with his eyes closed - all those unique moments that add to the Jordan legend. That's what sets him apart, and will probably make it impossible for another player to be considered the greatest... Kids today don't get it because they weren't there, but trust that everyone who played or is playing in the NBA today realizes this, including Scottie, whether he will admit it or not.