LeBron James Makes History as Oldest Player to Score 40 Points in a Game
LOS ANGELES — In a dazzling display of skill and endurance, LeBron James has once again etched his name into the annals of NBA history. The Los Angeles Lakers’ superstar became the oldest player in NBA history to score over 40 points in a game, leading his team to a 120-112 victory over the Golden State Warriors. This remarkable feat was achieved at the ripe age of 40 years and 38 days, surpassing the previous record held by none other than Michael Jordan.
After the game, James, ever the candid veteran, shared his thoughts on this milestone. “What do I think? That I’m old,” he quipped, following his 42-point performance on 14-for-25 shooting. “That’s what I think. I need a glass of wine and some sleep, that’s the first thing I think about.”
James’ achievement places him just a month older than Jordan was when he scored 43 points on February 21, 2003, for the Washington Wizards at 40 years and 4 days old. Reflecting on being linked to his childhood hero, James expressed humility and gratitude. “The biggest thing is we got the win, obviously,” he said. “But throughout my journey, anytime I’ve been named or in the category or whatever the case, crossed paths with any of the greats, it’s always humbling. Just to know where I come from. And I love the game so much. So it’s pretty cool.”
Facing off against a familiar rival in Stephen Curry, James showcased his prowess from beyond the arc. He nailed his first five 3-point attempts, including a stunning sequence of three consecutive shots in just 28 seconds during the second quarter. The final shot of this sequence was a jaw-dropping 34-footer from the Lakers’ logo at center court, putting L.A. up 45-23 and prompting Warriors coach Steve Kerr to call a timeout. The home crowd erupted as James raised his arms in triumph.
James’ dedication to perfecting his deep “logo” 3s has been a part of his pregame routine this season, with Lakers assistant coach Greg St. Jean assisting him. “I always work on things that I’m going to shoot in the game or plays that I’m going to do in the game,” James explained. “So, it pays off, for sure.”
Interestingly, James also holds the record as the youngest player in league history to score 40 in a game, having scored 41 points for the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 27, 2004, at just 19 years and 88 days old.
Lakers coach JJ Redick was effusive in his praise for James, stating, “I think with LeBron, we’ve run out of words and superlatives and descriptions to sort of capture what he’s doing at this stage of his career and at this age. It continues to be remarkable, it really does. And he really led us tonight.”
In addition to his scoring, James contributed 17 rebounds and 8 assists, with new teammate Luka Doncic watching from the bench in a black Lakers sweat suit. The Lakers are now No. 5 in the Western Conference standings, just a game behind the No. 4 Houston Rockets. Doncic is targeting Monday against the Utah Jazz for his Lakers debut, according to a source familiar with his plans.
James is eagerly anticipating Doncic’s debut, saying, “I’ve been watching him since he got into this league. And what he’s capable of doing is special. He’s a super-duper special talent.”
- LeBron James becomes the oldest player to score 40 points in an NBA game.
- James surpasses Michael Jordan’s record set in 2003.
- The Lakers secure their 10th win in the past 12 games.
- James also holds the record as the youngest player to score 40 points in a game.
- Luka Doncic is set to make his Lakers debut soon.
Originally Written by: Dave McMenamin
