LeBron James has once again etched his name in the history books, becoming the NBA’s all-time leader in regular season minutes played. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar achieved the milestone on Thursday night during the team’s 113-100 victory over the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center in California.
The record, previously held by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for 35 years, was surpassed in the second quarter when James hit 57,447 minutes, edging past Abdul-Jabbar’s 57,446 minutes. By the end of the game, James had logged 34 minutes, bringing his career total to an astounding 57,471 regular season minutes.
Following the game, James reflected on the achievement with humility. “It’s a pretty cool honor,” he shared. “To be linked with some of the greatest to ever play this game and to know I’ve been available to my teammates for two decades is incredibly humbling. I love this game, and to be able to contribute at a high level in the best league in the world is something I don’t take for granted.”
This milestone adds to James’ growing list of accomplishments. Last season, he became the NBA’s all-time leader in total minutes played, including playoffs, surpassing Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 66,297 minutes.
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When asked to compare the significance of the two records, James highlighted their interconnected importance. “They both are special,” he noted. “The regular season prepares you for the postseason. I’ve been fortunate to have deep playoff runs and play meaningful basketball in both settings, so they complement each other.”
LeBron James, now in his 22nd NBA season, continues to defy the odds at 39 years old. Averaging 22.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and nine assists per game this season, James showcases a level of durability and performance rarely seen in the league’s history.
Beyond his on-court accomplishments, James’ leadership and commitment to his teammates and the community amplify his impact. Earlier this season, he achieved another remarkable feat—sharing the court with his son, Bronny James, marking the first father-son duo to play in an NBA game.
The four-time MVP and NBA’s all-time leading scorer has accumulated an impressive resume, including four championships and a record 20 All-Star appearances. Drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, James has continuously evolved, cementing his place among basketball’s all-time greats.
LeBron James’ achievements serve as a beacon of inspiration for future basketball players. His commitment to excellence, perseverance through challenges, and ability to consistently deliver at the highest level underscore the enduring spirit of the game.
As James continues to add to his legacy, his influence extends far beyond personal accolades. He remains a role model, demonstrating that greatness is built on hard work, dedication, and an unwavering passion for the sport.
