LeBron James, already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first player in NBA history to score over 39,000 career points.
The Los Angeles Lakers secured a decisive 131-99 victory over the Utah Jazz, with James hitting a 3-pointer in the first quarter to reach this unprecedented milestone.
Wrapping up an undefeated run through Group Play in the NBA In-Season Tournament, James contributed 17 points in just 24 minutes.
Reflecting on the achievement, James acknowledged the significance, stating, “There’s been so many great players that came across this league since the beginning of time, and so many great scorers. To be able to accomplish something that’s the first of anything, I think that’s always pretty cool. It’s a wild moment, that’s for sure.”
Now in his 21st season, LeBron James continues to showcase elite performance, maintaining averages of 26.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.5 assists. At his current pace and assuming good health, James is poised to reach the 40,000-point mark later in the season.
Among NBA legends, only seven players have surpassed 30,000 career points, including James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Dirk Nowitzki, and Wilt Chamberlain. Notably, five of these players, including James, have had affiliations with the Lakers at some point in their careers.
Looking ahead, the next active player with the potential to join the 30,000-point club is Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant. Having recently surpassed Elvin Hayes to claim the 11th spot on the all-time scoring list, Durant stands at 27,331 points, needing 2,669 more to reach the coveted 30,000-point milestone.
Following Durant, LA Clippers guards James Harden and Russell Westbrook are on track to achieve 30,000 points. Harden boasts a career total of 24,805 points, while Westbrook closely follows with 24,615 points.
