"He' 87'-88'Jordan right now" - Former Warriors guard compares Kendrick Lamar's aura to prime Michael Jordan after rapper's bold Toronto move

When it comes to NBA history, Michael Jordan is viewed as one of the best when it comes to stature and demeanor. Earlier this week, a former Golden State Warriors guard compared a hit rap star to the basketball icon.

Dating back to the summer, one of the biggest stories in the music world is the ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. A new chapter was recently added to the story as Kendrick recently did a show in Toronto (Drake's hometown).

While on his podcast, Gilbert Arenas shared his thoughts on Kendrick Lamar showing up to Toronto to perform. He compared the LA artist to Michael Jordan in terms of his popularity and aura right now.

"He is Michael Phelps in Beijing. He is '87-'88 Jordan right now. He is 2015-2016 Curry, move," Arenas said. "You gotta realize when greatness is at the door and the rap Gods is blessing him."

The year Arenas is referring to is when Jordan finally broke through as one of the NBA's elite talents. Fresh off averaging 37.1 points per game the year prior, the Bulls guard took things to new heights.

Jordan compiled one of his best statistical seasons in 1988, averaging 35.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 rebounds and 3.2 steals. He went on to be named MVP and Defensive Player of the Year that season, becoming the first player to win both in the same season. Since then, Hakeem Olajuwon and Giannis Antetokounmpo are the only others to pull off this feat.

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Has Kendrick Lamar ever referenced Michael Jordan in his music?

In recent history, basketball and hip-hop are two things that have almost blended into one. Artists are constantly making references to the sport, especially with big names like Michael Jordan.

As far as Kendrick Lamar goes, he has paid homage to the NBA icon in his music on multiple occasions. Back in 2010, he released a song with SchoolBoy Q titled "Michael Jordan."

Since naming an entire song after the Chicago Bulls legend, Kendrick has referenced MJ on two other occasions. The first was on his 2015 track "The Blacker The Berry." In the song, he references aspiring to try and secure big-time endorsements like "His Airness."

"Or jump high enough to get Michael Jordan endorsements," Kendrick Lamar said.

The second time came in Kendrick's track "Hey Now On this occasion, he credits MJ with being one of the best players ever.

"If they talkin' 'bout playin' ball, they can take it up with Jordan," Kendrick Lamar said.

Seeing that Kendrick Lamar seems to be a big fan of MJ, he likely appreciates people like Arenas putting his name next to his.