LeBron James Makes History: A Journey to the Top as the NBA’s All-Time Leading Scorer
LeBron James has made NBA history as he became the league’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing the long-standing record of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. James achieved the feat while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers against the Oklahoma City Thunder, scoring 38 points in the game.
Record Breaking Performance
James needed 36 points to break the record and he did so with a fadeaway jumper at the end of the third quarter, bringing his career total to 38,390 points. The 38-year-old celebrated the achievement with both arms raised, while Abdul-Jabbar, who was in attendance at the game, stood and applauded. A brief ceremony was held to mark James’ historic accomplishment, during which he took to the court with a microphone to express his gratitude.
Tribute to Abdul-Jabbar
“To be in the presence of a legend like Kareem means so much to me,” James said. He went on to thank everyone who has been a part of his journey, including the NBA and its former Commissioner, David Stern. In recognition of James’ new record, Abdul-Jabbar ceremoniously handed over the ball to James in front of a cheering crowd that included music icons Jay-Z, LL Cool J, and Bad Bunny, as well as boxing legend Floyd Mayweather Jr and actor Denzel Washington.
Abdul-Jabbar’s Legacy
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar played in the NBA for 20 seasons, representing both the Milwaukee Bucks and the Lakers, and he retired in 1989. Abdul-Jabbar considers James one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and he holds the record for the most regular season MVP awards with 6. Abdul-Jabbar said that James’ achievement had every chance of being broken, but it needed someone with a continually focused offensive game. He went on to praise James for his longevity and domination in the sport.
LeBron James’ Career
James began his NBA journey as the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003 and is now in his 20th season. He has played for the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Lakers, and has successfully won four NBA championships and received the Finals MVP title four times. He is also a two-time Olympic champion and has won four regular season MVP awards. Many consider James to be one of the greatest basketball players in history, and he holds several records, including being the youngest player to reach milestones for significant points.
Final Thoughts
When asked if he considers himself the best NBA player of all time, James humbly replied, “I’ll let everyone else decide that, but I’m willing to take myself against anyone who has ever played the game.” Regardless of one’s personal opinion, there is no denying that LeBron James has cemented his place in NBA history with his record-breaking performance.
