Isiah Thomas Declares LeBron James the Greatest of All Time Ahead of NBA Event in India

Isiah Thomas, the Hall of Famer and two-time NBA champion, has declared LeBron James the greatest basketball player of all time. As he prepares for the BUDX NBA House 2026 in New Delhi, Thomas emphasizes the importance of grassroots development and quality coaching for basketball in India. The event promises a mix of basketball, music, and cultural experiences, featuring NBA stars and interactive activities. Thomas also shares insights on the current NBA title race and praises the Detroit Pistons' defensive strategy. His unwavering support for LeBron in the GOAT debate highlights the player's unmatched records and impact on the game.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 8, 2026, 02:15 IST

Isiah Thomas Backs LeBron James as the GOAT

New Delhi [India], May 7: Isiah Thomas, a two-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, has voiced his support for LeBron James, calling him the greatest basketball player in history. He emphasized the importance of grassroots development, accessibility, and coaching for the advancement of basketball in India as he prepares to lead the upcoming BUDX NBA House 2026 event in the capital.

In an interview before the two-day event at Bharat Mandapam, Thomas expressed his enthusiasm about returning to India and connecting with fans through a blend of basketball, music, and cultural experiences.

“We’re gearing up to head over to the Bud X house for a great time, enjoying music, culture, and playing with the kids,” Thomas remarked.

The NBA, in collaboration with Budweiser India, announced the return of this interactive fan experience during the 2026 NBA Playoffs, following its successful debut in Mumbai last year. Scheduled for May 9 and 10 in New Delhi, the event will include live music, basketball activities, meet-and-greets, celebrity games, and appearances from NBA stars like four-time All-Star DeMarcus Cousins.

Thomas, who is celebrated as one of the finest point guards in NBA history, shared insights on the future of basketball talent in India, stressing that the foundation lies in grassroots involvement and quality coaching.

“From what I’ve observed, the key is to play and learn the game, along with receiving excellent coaching,” he stated.

“The more film you watch, the more you learn from observing other players. But getting outside, picking up the ball, shooting, and making friends on the court—that’s the essence of the game,” Thomas added, highlighting the significance of grassroots engagement.

Regarding the NBA title race, Thomas favored the reigning champions, Oklahoma City Thunder, but acknowledged the rising challenge from the San Antonio Spurs and their standout player, Victor Wembanyama.

“Currently, OKC is the favorite, and you have to lean towards them since they won last year and retained their team,” Thomas noted. “However, San Antonio looks promising. Wimby is a unique talent we’ve never seen in the NBA.”

He also praised the Detroit Pistons for their defensive strategy and the development of star guard Cade Cunningham.

“They’re built on defense and are designed to succeed in the playoffs,” he said, commending Cunningham for playing “his best basketball right now.”

In a clear stance on the ongoing debate about the NBA's greatest player, Thomas firmly supported LeBron James.

“I’ve consistently stated that LeBron James is the best basketball player I’ve ever witnessed,” he affirmed. “There has never been a player like him in our league. How can you not consider him the best when he holds every record?”