Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, a legendary figure in NBA history and one of the most decorated players of all time, turns 40 on Monday.
Since the start of the 2023/24 season, James has held the title of the league’s oldest active player, underscoring his remarkable longevity and durability in a sport known for its physical toll.
As Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press highlights, James is on the brink of an extraordinary milestone, becoming the first player in NBA history to have competed during his teenage years, his 20s, 30s, and now his 40s.
This feat cements his legacy as an enduring presence in professional basketball, transcending eras and redefining the limits of an athlete’s career.
He also joins an elite group, as only the 30th player ever to appear in a regular-season game at 40 years or older, a testament to his ability to defy the odds.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver lauded James for his exceptional work ethic and physical resilience, remarking on how unique his dedication is, even among the sport’s greatest.
“In some ways, he’s a freak of nature,” Silver said. “I’ve been around a lot of great players, and he’s one of the hardest-working players I’ve been around. I mean, he doesn’t take a day off.
“He seems to not take an afternoon off. He’s always working on some part of his body. You meet with him and he’s always soaking something or eating something with some contraption attached to him.”
Currently playing in his 22nd NBA season, James shows no signs of slowing down. For the 18-13 Lakers, he remains a vital contributor and a cornerstone of the team’s success.
Averaging 23.5 points per game on efficient shooting splits – 49.6% from the field, 35.7% from three-point range, and 76.7% from the free-throw line – he also contributes 9.0 rebounds and 7.9 assists per contest.
James has competed in 22 NBA seasons, representing the Cavaliers, Lakers, and Heat. Over 1,520 regular-season games, he has posted career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.4 assists.
A 20-time All-Star, the player has earned numerous accolades, including Rookie of the Year, 4 MVP awards, 4 Finals MVPs, and 4 NBA championships.
Lakers Notes: James, Christie, Finney-Smith, Trade Assets https://t.co/zUGdxeHd41 pic.twitter.com/YjDCoX8lJp
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 30, 2024
