James has publicly attacked Trump before, famously calling him a "bum" in 2017 after a White House invitation dispute. He has also backed Trump’s opponents in past elections, supporting Hillary Clinton in 2016, Joe Biden in 2020 and Kamala Harris in 2024.
Social media users reacted sharply, calling Trump’s comment self-centered and absurd. Many defended Jordan as a top contender but said the GOAT debate should rest on stats and legacy rather than personal loyalty.