LeBron James and the Rest of the 40-Year-Old NBA Players
As LeBron James celebrated his 40th birthday on December 30, 2024, he etched his name into the annals of NBA history by becoming the first player to compete in games across four different decades - from his teenage years to his 40s. This milestone not only showcases James's extraordinary longevity but also highlights a unique club of players who have continued to grace the NBA hardwood well into their 40s.
The 40-Year-Old Club:
In the NBA, players reaching 40 while still in the league are a rarity. According to historical data, only 32 players have played NBA games after turning 40. This number includes both regular season and playoff games. Here are some notable performances
Michael Jordan: After a brief retirement, Jordan returned to the NBA with the Washington Wizards, where he scored 43 points in an 89-86 win over New Jersey just four days after turning 40, marking one of the few 40-point games by a player in their 40s.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Known for his scoring prowess, Abdul-Jabbar scored the most points of any player past 40, amassing 1,941 points. His performance at this age is a testament to his legendary career, which included setting the all-time scoring record that James would later surpass.
Karl Malone: Malone recorded the only triple-double by a 40-year-old in NBA history, with 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists for the Los Angeles Lakers in a win against the San Antonio Spurs.
Dirk Nowitzki: Playing his entire 2018-19 season at 40, Nowitzki added to his storied career with this milestone, averaging 7.3 points per game.
Robert Parish, Vince Carter, and John Stockton: These players also scored over 1,000 points each after their 40th birthdays, demonstrating significant staying power and skill at an advanced age.
LeBron James and the New Era:
LeBron James, often compared to the legends of the game, has not just played at 40; he's excelled. In his first game as a 40-year-old, James put up 23 points and 7 assists, shooting an impressive 53% from the field, showcasing his undiminished capabilities. His performance is all the more remarkable considering he's currently averaging roughly 23 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds per game, numbers that dwarf the typical output of NBA players in their 40s.
James's ability to maintain such high levels of play is attributed to his relentless work ethic, exceptional fitness regimen, and sheer talent. His presence on the court at this age also brings an element of excitement and nostalgia, bridging generations of basketball fans.
The Cultural Impact:
The narrative around LeBron James at 40 transcends basketball. It's about defying age, setting new standards, and perhaps redefining what's possible in professional sports. James's journey from "The Kid from Akron" to a seasoned veteran has been nothing short of cinematic, with each chapter adding layers to his legacy.
Here's a list of NBA players who have played after turning 40:
Nat Hickey
Bob Cousy
Robert Parish
Vince Carter
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
John Stockton
Karl Malone
Dikembe Mutombo
Kevin Willis
Michael Jordan
Moses Malone
Charles Jones
Rick Mahorn
Charles Oakley
Juwan Howard
Jamal Crawford
Joe Johnson
Udonis Haslem
Dirk Nowitzki
Steve Nash
Kevin Garnett
Tim Duncan
Manu Ginóbili
Paul Pierce
Ray Allen
Rasheed Wallace
Jason Kidd
Shaquille O'Neal
Allen Iverson
Tracy McGrady
LeBron James
Danny Schayes