LeBron James is on the verge of becoming a part of N.B.A. history after scoring 17 points in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 108-102 win over the LA Clippers. His career total is now 49,999 points, one short of an unprecedented 50,000.
The NBA’s all-time leading scorer, James continues to transcend longevity and dominance in professional basketball. Breaking the 50,000-point barrier will likewise fortify his place among the greats of the game, a nice footnote on a career that will already be the subject of legends.
Once considered an all-time great primarily for his playmaking ability, James has diversified as a scoring machine who is nearly impossible to stop. There is no doubt that people will be talking about his skill, work ethic and love for the game as he turns 40 years old and continues playing at the highest of levels.
This milestone marks a significant achievement as the Lakers are in the midst of the playoff race. While basketball fans around the world count down the days until he takes the court again James will become the first player ever to, thereby adding another historic milestone to his already jaw-dropping resume.