LeBron James has achieved yet another milestone in his illustrious NBA career, becoming the first player in history to score 40,000 regular-season points. This remarkable feat underscores James' exceptional scoring prowess and enduring impact on the game of basketball.
Breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's longstanding record, which stood for nearly four decades, is a testament to James' longevity and consistency on the court. While Abdul-Jabbar averaged just 10.1 points per game in his final NBA season, James has maintained an impressive scoring average of nearly 29 points per game in the season in which he surpassed the record.
Despite being in his 21st NBA season, James continues to defy age and expectations. He recently led a 21-point fourth-quarter comeback against the Clippers, showcasing his enduring skill and competitive spirit.
Looking ahead, the question remains: What will be James' final scoring tally when he eventually retires? While he has not indicated a specific timeline for his NBA career, his desire to play alongside his sons, particularly his second son Bryce, who becomes draft-eligible in the 2026-27 season, suggests he may continue for several more years.
Considering James' remarkable durability and scoring prowess, it is plausible to project that he will continue to add to his scoring total, potentially surpassing 43,000 points by the end of his career. This would solidify his place as not only the greatest scorer of his era but also as one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history.
As James continues to make history on the basketball court, his impact transcends the game, inspiring a new generation of players and leaving an indelible mark on the sport.