In a historic moment for the NBA, LeBron James has become the first player in league history to surpass 40,000 career points. The Los Angeles Lakers star achieved the monumental feat during a game against the New York Knicks on January 1, 2025, solidifying his place among the greatest to ever play the game.
James, who has been a dominant force in the NBA for over two decades, reached the 40,000-point mark with a mid-range jumper in the second quarter, sending the Staples Center crowd into a frenzy. With the basket, he became the league’s all-time scoring leader, a record previously held by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, whose 38,387 career points had stood for nearly 40 years.
The milestone has sparked widespread admiration from fans, players, and analysts alike. James, known for his versatility and longevity, has consistently defied expectations throughout his career, and this latest achievement is a testament to his relentless dedication to the game.
“It’s humbling,” James said after the game. “I’ve always loved the game of basketball, but to reach this level, to surpass 40,000 points, it’s something I never dreamed of. I’m just grateful for every moment I’ve had on the court, and I can’t thank my teammates, my coaches, and my family enough for all the support.”
James’ achievement comes on the heels of his record-breaking career that includes four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and 18 All-Star selections. Beyond his scoring ability, LeBron has been praised for his leadership, basketball IQ, and commitment to making his teams better, whether it’s been with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, or the Los Angeles Lakers.
As the game continued, James went on to finish with a team-high 29 points, leading the Lakers to a 110-98 victory over the Knicks. While the game itself was important for the Lakers’ playoff aspirations, the night will undoubtedly be remembered for LeBron’s place in history.
With the 40,000-point milestone now behind him, LeBron James continues to chase more records and championships. At 40 years old, his place among the NBA’s elite players is firmly cemented, and with his sights set on further greatness, many are left wondering just how far James can push the boundaries of what’s possible in basketball.
