LeBron James will enter his 20 NBA season this week. 20 years in the league is a feat that has only been done by eight other players. On top of having such a long career, James is also on the verge of breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record. When will James break Abdul-Jabbar’s record?
When will he break the record?
At 37 years old, James has shown no sign of slowing down in the past three seasons. Last year he averaged 30 points, 8.2 rebounds, 6 assists and 26 minutes per game. During the 2021 season he averaged 25 points, 7.7 rebounds and 7.8 assists.
He is currently 1,326 points behind Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 38,387 points. If he has another 30 point average season, he would be able to break the record 45 games into the season. If he were to average 25 points, he would break the record 53 games into the season.
This record is one many thought would never be broken, including James himself. During the Lakers training camp, James stated, “To sit here and to know that I’m on the verge of breaking probably the most sought-after record in the NBA, something that people say will probably never be done, I think it’s just super like humbling, for myself, I think it’s super cool.”
Deeper Connection
James and Abdul-Jabbar may not have much of a relationship off the court, but on the court their careers are quite similar. Both started off in small market teams, the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Milwaukee Bucks respectively. James left Cleveland for Miami, in hopes of a championship and to bring his game to another level. Abdul-Jabbar left Milwaukee for Los Angeles in hopes of more championships and diversity.
Both have become movie stars. James produced and starred in Space Jam: A New Legacy. The film reimagined Michael Jordan’s 1996 version. Abdul-Jabbar became quite the film star. He made his acting debut in Bruce Lee’s film Game of Death. And since then has made 19 film and television appearances.
Perhaps the most similar trait between the two is that they seem to avoid father time. James will enter his 20 NBA season this week. Adding him to the list of eight players including Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant and Vince Carter.
James spends thousands of dollars every year to keep his body in top shape. From personal chefs and dietitians to trainers and masseuses, James always puts his body first. Abdul-Jabbar credits his long career to taking care of his body as well.
In the 80s, most athletes did not have access to the level of treatment like they do now. But even then Abdul-Jabbar made sure to take care of himself. His diet was always quite strict. After converting to Islam, he cut out all meat except for chicken.
Regardless of when James breaks Abdul-Jabbar’s record, both men will be remembered for their incredible careers.
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