Kareem on GOAT debate: 'There can be more than one'

Although he hasn't played a game in almost 30 years, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar remains the NBA's all-time leading scorer and still has more league MVP trophies (six) than anyone else.

Still, perhaps due to recency bias and names like LeBron James and Michael Jordan, he's often forgotten in the debate over who's the greatest player to ever suit up in the NBA.

It doesn't bother him.

"These 'GOAT' discussions are fun distractions while sitting around waiting for the pizza to be served," Abdul-Jabbar told The Undefeated's Marc J. Spears. "But they're on par with 'Which superpower would you want most: flight or invisibility?' Whether I'm included or not in anyone’s list doesn't matter. I played my hardest and I helped my teammates. That’s the most important thing I walked away with."

Abdul-Jabbar starred in the league from 1969-89, most of which was an era dominated by centers and big men of his ilk. To wit: Only one three-pointer was sunk during the six games of the 1980 NBA Finals.

"The reason there is no such thing as the GOAT is because every player plays under unique circumstances," Abdul-Jabbar said. "We played different positions, under different rules, with different teammates, with different coaches. Every player has to adapt to their circumstances and find a way to excel. This isn't 'Highlander.' There can be more than one."