Lebron James makes NBA history after hitting 40,000 points mark
Los Angeles Lakers’ star LeBron James made history on Saturday, becoming the first NBA player to reach 40,000 career regular-season points.
Despite the milestone, James described the achievement as “bittersweet” as the Lakers suffered a 124-114 defeat against the Denver Nuggets.
“Being the first player to do something, it’s pretty cool in this league ’cause you just know the history, you know the grace that has come through the league,” James said. “But the main thing is always the main thing and that’s the win.”
James led the Lakers with 26 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Nuggets’ six-game winning streak. Despite the loss, Lakers coach Darvin Ham commended James, calling it “a hell of an accomplishment.”
The historic basket came early in the second quarter when James banked in a driving layup, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd. However, the Nuggets rallied late in the game, outscoring the Lakers in the final minutes to secure the win.
Reflecting on his milestone, James emphasized the importance of longevity, good health, and productivity in achieving such a feat in the NBA. “You have to play the game quite a while and have some good luck as far as injuries and things of that nature,” James remarked.
Meanwhile, in other NBA action, Mikal Bridges led the Brooklyn Nets to a 114-102 victory over the Atlanta Hawks, while Jimmy Butler powered the Miami Heat to a 126-120 win against the Utah Jazz with 37 points. Additionally, Anfernee Simons’ 30 points propelled the Portland Trail Blazers to a 107-100 overtime win over the Memphis Grizzlies, and Jalen Green’s 34 points helped the Houston Rockets defeat the Phoenix Suns 118-109.
