Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has made history once again, becoming the first player in NBA history to score 50,000 career points.
This achievement further cements his status as the league’s all-time leading scorer, setting a milestone that may stand for generations.
James entered Tuesday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans just one point shy of the record, following a 17-point performance in the Lakers’ win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday. It didn’t take long for the 40-year-old legend to hit the mark—he received a pass from Luka Dončić and launched a flawless 25-foot three-pointer, bringing his total to 50,002 points. The Crypto.com Arena erupted in celebration.
LeBron James had already surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s longstanding regular-season scoring record of 38,387 points in 2023, a record that had remained untouched for 39 years.
James is now nearly 6,000 points ahead of Abdul-Jabbar’s combined career total of 44,149. Karl Malone follows in third place with 41,689 points, while the late Kobe Bryant ranks fourth with 39,283 points. Michael Jordan completes the top five with 38,279 career points.
Among active players, only Kevin Durant comes close, sitting over 15,000 points behind James with just over 35,000 points.
LeBron James’ latest feat further solidifies his legacy as one of basketball’s greatest players, continuing to defy expectations in his 22nd season in the league.
