In a spectacular display of skill and longevity, LeBron James has shattered the NBA’s all-time scoring record, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players in history. On January 16, 2025, during the NBA All-Star Game in Salt Lake City, Utah, James surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s longstanding record of 38,387 career points, becoming the league’s new all-time scoring leader. This milestone was achieved in front of a raucous crowd at the Vivint Arena, adding to the excitement of one of the most anticipated events in basketball.
The moment came midway through the second quarter, when James, playing for Team West, hit a three-pointer over Team East’s defense, bringing his career total to 38,388 points. The crowd erupted into applause as James, ever the professional, acknowledged the moment with a fist pump before returning to the action. His teammates, including fellow All-Stars Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, congratulated him on the historic achievement, while Abdul-Jabbar, who was in attendance for the game, stood to give a standing ovation to the man who had dethroned him.
“It’s an honor to surpass a legend like Kareem,” LeBron said in his post-game interview. “He’s been my idol, and to be mentioned in the same breath as him is humbling. But this is a team game, and tonight was about having fun and competing at the highest level.”
James, who has been in the league for over two decades, has long been recognized for his versatility, longevity, and high basketball IQ. His ability to adapt his game over the years, from dominating in the post to becoming a lethal three-point shooter, has allowed him to maintain an elite level of play well into his late 30s. Many experts believe his incredible fitness and work ethic have been key factors in his ability to compete at such a high level for so long.
The 2025 All-Star Game, however, wasn’t just about James’ individual achievement. Despite the milestone, Team West emerged victorious, defeating Team East 172-165 in a thrilling contest filled with dazzling plays, alley-oops, and impressive scoring. James led the way for Team West, contributing 28 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds, showcasing the all-around game that has defined his career.
Stephen Curry, who shared the floor with James on the West squad, also had a standout performance, adding 22 points and 10 assists. On the East side, Giannis Antetokounmpo led all scorers with 30 points, while Jayson Tatum chipped in with 25 points, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for Team East.
The game was a fitting celebration of the NBA’s brightest stars and offered a glimpse into the future of the league, with rising talents like Luka Dončić and Ja Morant adding excitement alongside established veterans. Despite the competitive nature of the game, the night was filled with respect for the legends of the past and an acknowledgement of the changing of the guard in NBA history.
James’ achievement has sparked widespread discussions about his place in the conversation for the greatest basketball player of all time. While debates about who holds that title continue, there’s no denying James’ remarkable journey and influence on the game, which extends far beyond individual accolades. His ability to lead teams to championships, his off-court activism, and his commitment to elevating the game worldwide have made him an iconic figure in sports history.
As the NBA celebrates LeBron James’ incredible career, it’s clear that the King’s reign isn’t over yet. At 39 years old, James continues to show no signs of slowing down, and with his relentless drive, it’s likely he’ll keep rewriting the history books for years to come.
