The Los Angeles Lakers’ superstar LeBron James added another massive achievement to his resume. In a 124-114 loss to the Denver Nuggets over the weekend, James became the first player in NBA history to reach 40,000 career points.
James, who became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer last season, reached the 40K mark early in the second quarter by driving to the basket and converting a layup. He finished the game with 26 points and a career tally of 40,017 points.
Speaking with reporters after the game, James said that his achievement feels special but that he isn’t happy it came in a losing effort.
“Being the first player to do something, it’s pretty cool in this league, just knowing the history, the greats that’s come through the league and then you see some of the greats on the floor tonight, it was great to compete,” James said after the game. “But for me, the main thing, as always, is to win, and I hated that it had to happen in a defeat.”
Despite being in his 21st season as a pro, LeBron James continues to be one of the best players in the game. He is averaging 25.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game while shooting a career-high 40.8% from behind the three-point line.
However, not even James’ performances are able to lift the underperforming Lakers. The LA team is currently 10th in the Western Conference standings with a 33-29 record.
