Twenty-two seasons, countless games, and an endless list of records—LeBron James has just added another to his collection: the first player in NBA history to surpass 50,000 career points across the regular season and playoffs. The historic moment came in style, with a three-pointer against the New Orleans Pelicans. No free throws, no simple layups—just a classic LeBron statement, proving he’s still one of the most electrifying players in the game.
Even at 40, James continues to play at an elite level. This season, he's averaging between 25 and 28 points per game, making smarter shot selections than ever. In February, he was named the Western Conference Player of the Month, posting incredible stats: 29.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game. It was the 41st time he received the honor, five years after his last, reinforcing his unmatched longevity in the sport.
No other NBA legend has sustained this level of excellence past 35. Michael Jordan, after his Bulls dynasty, was no longer the same with the Washington Wizards. Kobe Bryant, dominant until 34, saw his explosiveness fade after his 2013 Achilles injury, finishing his career with 17.6 points per game. Shaquille O’Neal, a force of nature in the early 2000s, saw his numbers drop drastically after 35, averaging just 10 points per game with the Boston Celtics. Allen Iverson's decline was even sharper, as his scoring average dropped dramatically after turning 32.
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LeBron, on the other hand, has defied all expectations. He’s making smarter decisions, shooting more efficiently, and embracing his role as a playmaker while still delivering dominant performances. His leadership has turned the Lakers into championship contenders again, proving that even in his 40s, he remains the face of the league.
Many doubted him over the years, but some critics are starting to backtrack. Colin Cowherd, a Fox Sports analyst, once claimed that Ben Simmons would have a bigger impact on his generation than LeBron. Now, Simmons struggles to find a role in the league, while James continues to redefine greatness.
