LeBron James Sets Record as NBA’s All-Time Leader in Regular Season Minutes Played

LeBron James Sets Record as NBA’s All-Time Leader in Regular Season Minutes Played

LeBron James reached another historic milestone in his legendary basketball career on Thursday night, becoming the NBA’s all-time leader in regular season minutes played. The Los Angeles Lakers star surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 35-year-old record during the Lakers’ 113-100 victory over the Sacramento Kings at the Golden 1 Center in California.

In his 22nd NBA season, James entered the game against the Kings with 57,437 minutes played, just 10 minutes shy of Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 57,446 minutes. He broke the record in the second quarter and concluded the game with 57,471 minutes after playing 34 minutes that night.

“It’s a pretty cool honor,” James reflected after the game. “Anytime I’m mentioned alongside some of the greatest to ever play this game, it’s humbling. To know that I’ve been available for my teammates, played at a high level for two decades, and continuously etched my name in the record books of this game that I love so much is very humbling.”

This isn’t the first time James has broken a minutes-played record. Last season, he became the league’s all-time leader in combined minutes played, including playoffs, surpassing Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 66,297 during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers in November 2023.

When asked which record meant more to him, James remarked, “They both are special. You set your mark in the regular season to prepare for the postseason. It’s all part of the process. I’ve had some deep playoff runs and played meaningful games throughout my career. Both records hold unique significance; you can’t have one without the other.”

The NBA celebrated James’ latest achievement with a congratulatory post on social media: “Congrats to @KingJames of the @Lakers for becoming the NBA’s all-time leader in TOTAL MINUTES PLAYED in the regular season!”

James’ milestone adds to his already illustrious career. Earlier this season, he achieved another historic feat, becoming the first player in NBA history to share the court with his son, Bronny James, in a game. This father-son moment further highlighted James’ unparalleled longevity and impact on the sport.

The NBA’s all-time leading scorer is also a four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP. He holds the record for most All-Star appearances with 20 and continues to dominate the league. This season, the 39-year-old is averaging 22.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 9 assists per game for the Lakers.

LeBron James’ career exemplifies excellence and endurance, and Thursday night’s achievement is yet another testament to his legacy as one of basketball’s greatest players.