What tier does Tracy McGrady belong to in terms of the NBA great hierarchy?

Many NBA fans have their own subjective way of ranking their greatest of all time. The ones on the list are usually those who won a ring, at least a season MVP, and Finals MVP.

McGrady achieved none of those, but he believes he is at the same level as the LeBrons and Shaqs of the league if talent is the central point of discussion.

"Regardless of what and how anyone else feels when you talk about the talent, its undoubtedly that my talent level was definitely up with the great players that have played this game," he told The Ringer.

"I didn't play with Shaq. I didn't play with no LeBrons. Yao [Ming] was my best teammate and we couldn't stay healthy."

T-Mac has individual wares to support his take. The Naismith Hall of Fame inductee is a seven-time All-Star and former two-time scoring champion.

"So, I've never played on a championship team. But when you look at the talent level, you can't question or deny that."

T-Mac looks back on time with Yao Ming

McGrady became a journeyman in the tail-end of his NBA career, but his time with the Houston Rockets is regarded as his peak and most memorable.

He was acquired by the Rockets to pair with 7'6 Yao Ming. However, things did not pan out as expected.

McGrady thought he had a complete teammate in Yao.

"Offensively, he was one of the most skilled players in his time," he said in another interview with Pat Bev podcast.

"Left hand, right hand, jump hook, mid-range, free throws - he had it all. He even handled the ball in transition and made the right basketball plays. He was tough, man. He was real tough."

Imagine Yao not getting injured. McGrady will have no more need to deal with What Ifs.