LeBron Makes NBA History at 40, But Cavaliers Steal the Spotlight in LA Showdown

LeBron James reached another historic milestone, becoming the first player in NBA history to compete both as a teenager and beyond the age of 40. James, who debuted in 2003 as an 18-year-old, celebrated his 40th birthday on December 30. Despite scoring 23 points for the Los Angeles Lakers, his efforts weren’t enough to prevent a 122-110 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Crypto.com Arena. Jarrett Allen led the Cavs with 27 points, securing their eighth consecutive victory and maintaining their position atop the Eastern Conference. The Lakers, meanwhile, sit seventh in the West.

James, widely recognized as one of the greatest basketball players ever, continues to build on his unparalleled career. Last year, he became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. With four championships, four MVP awards, and now in his 22nd season—a record shared with Vince Carter—James’ legacy is unmatched.

Elsewhere, Giannis Antetokounmpo spearheaded the Milwaukee Bucks’ stunning 120-112 comeback against the Indiana Pacers. Down by 19 late in the third quarter, Antetokounmpo delivered 30 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists to secure the win.

The Oklahoma City Thunder extended their dominance in the Western Conference, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 113-105, thanks to a commanding 40-point performance by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

The Boston Celtics delivered a crushing 125-71 victory over the Toronto Raptors, extending the Raptors’ losing streak to 11 games. Jayson Tatum led the charge with 23 points and eight rebounds.

Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama’s 27 points powered the San Antonio Spurs to a commanding 122-86 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, and Jaren Jackson Jr’s 38-point display propelled the Memphis Grizzlies to a 117-112 victory over the struggling Phoenix Suns.