Statistical dominance is essential,
but not as an absolute accumulation, rather we look at the distance between the player and the next closest player, solving for relative superiority in the era they competed.

While compiling statistics proves individual ability, doing so without winning is an empty pursuit not worthy of the “greatest” tag. Instead we look at title efficiency, individual honors, and the delta between post-season and regular season play.

Playing the game at a high level may make you memorable, but in order to be great, you’ve got to change the game. Did the player showcase such special talent or ability that the rules were changed, the style was copied, or the gravity of the game itself adjusted to keep up?

True greatness moves beyond the limits of the sport itself, imprinting itself on culture globally, creating style, trends, and generations of recognition from fans and casual observers alike. Greatness transcends.

The path to greatness is not paved with ease. The pitfalls along the way, particularly the ones avoided, separate the truly great from the pretty darn good. We must deduct score for failure to stay above scandal, for poisoning the brand, for the inability to make their teammates better.

Sustaining greatness is essential to cementing your legendary status on this list. Empty stats carry a penalty, giving winning DNA a rightful place at the forefront of the greatness conversation. Likewise, choking on the biggest stages carries a penalty. Greatness is about getting the job done consistently.

Who you beat matters. Winning against extreme odds is more valuable to the greatness formula than dominating competition that never had a shot. Similarly, if a nemesis was never conquered, how can one claim GOAT status?