LeBron James Starts Record 23rd NBA Season, Sets Longevity Milestone
LeBron James began his 23rd NBA season on a historic note, becoming the first player in league history to achieve this milestone. The game took place at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, where the Lakers faced the Utah Jazz.
LeBron’s Unprecedented Longevity in the NBA
By starting his 23rd season, LeBron James has surpassed the previous record held by Vince Carter, who played 22 seasons from 1998 to 2020. This achievement was recognized during the game as fans applauded him when the public address announcer congratulated him for this remarkable feat.
A Historic Game
The matchup against the Jazz began with some challenges for the Lakers. They fell behind by as much as 11 points in the first quarter, with James failing to score initially. The Jazz led 36-27 after the first quarter.
- LeBron scored his first points of the season with a three-pointer in the second quarter.
- The Lakers rebounded strongly, ultimately winning the game 140-125.
- LeBron finished with a double-double, contributing 11 points and 12 assists.
Continuing Legacy and Performance
In addition to his historic achievement, LeBron James has maintained an incredible streak. He has scored in double digits for 1,293 consecutive games, showcasing his enduring skill and tenacity. During this game, James played for 30 minutes, aligning with the rest of the starters.
Health Challenges and Future Outlook
James missed the first 14 games of the 2025-26 season due to sciatica, a nerve issue affecting his mobility. Despite these challenges, he returned to practice recently, easing back into team dynamics. Coach JJ Redick noted that his absence was due to a nerve irritation in his glute.
Amid retirement rumors, James opted to continue his career by accepting a lucrative $52.6 million option, ensuring his stay with the Lakers for another season. His performance last season was impressive, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists across 70 games.
Impressive Career Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Regular Season Points | 42,184 |
| Total Points (Regular Season + Playoffs) | 50,473 |
| NBA Draft Year | 2003 |
| Current Age | 40 (turning 41 in December) |
LeBron James continues to redefine longevity in professional sports, breaking records while leaving an indelible mark on the NBA. As he progresses through this historic season, fans remain eager to witness more milestones from this basketball icon.
