$2,000,000 NFL safety's wife snubs Michael Jordan for LeBron James over one key reason

Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan and LA Lakers superstar forward LeBron James have long been widely regarded as the NBA's two greatest players ever. While Jordan is often favored in GOAT debates, particularly by older NBA fans, many younger fans, including gymnast sensation Simone Biles, resonate more with James.

In a Sports Illustrated interview shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Biles made her GOAT picks from acclaimed athletes across various sports. The 11-time Olympic medalist, wife of the $2 million-worth (via Celebrity Net Worth) Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens, began with Jordan versus James.

Despite being married to a Chicago athlete, Biles didn't hesitate to choose James, citing her nostalgia-based attachment to the four-time MVP's game.

"I grew up on LeBron James, so I have to say LeBron James," Biles said.

Biles, 27, was born on March 14, 1997, around six and a half years before James began his career. So, she has likely been able to follow most of his 22-year journey.

Conversely, Jordan retired in 2003, and most of his peak years came in the 1980s and early 90s before Biles was born.

Additionally, Biles' endorsement of James over Jordan probably shouldn't come as a surprise to those who follow the Olympics. James has been highly praiseful of the decorated gymnast on several occasions, including during last summer's Paris Olympics.

In July, James raved about Biles' influence on the next generation.

"Simone is super dope. She's an inspiration to my daughter and to all — not only Black girls — but also kids everywhere," James said, via ABC News. "She's amazing, and she's everything."

A month later, the 20-time All-Star dubbed Biles the "Black GOAT" on X/Twitter.

Thus, it appears their respect is mutual.

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Simone Biles chooses Diana Taurasi over LeBron James in GOAT athlete rankings

While Simone Biles is a longtime LeBron James fan, the four-time NBA champion didn't last long during her GOAT picks.

After giving James the advantage over Michael Jordan, Biles was tasked with choosing between the Lakers superstar and WNBA icon Diana Taurasi. The Olympic great leaned toward Taurasi, highlighting her affinity for "women's sports."

"We're gonna go with women's sports, so Diana," Biles said.

However, given James' outspoken support of female athletics, including the WNBA, he likely wouldn't mind Biles' pick.

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