The King claims throne

WHEN the all-time scoring title was on LeBron James’ sight back in 2020, there is no doubt that it’s just a matter of time that he will eclipse Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 38,387 points record. And on Wednesday noon (Philippine standard time) the “Kid from Akron” took that from “The Captain” as he swished a bucket from the elbow for his 38,388 all-time points.

There was a frenetic celebration when James made the shot. Jabbar’s record stood uncontested for nearly 39 years (April 5, 1984-Feb. 8, 2023). Heck, that record is even older than James who turned 38 last December. It was nearly impossible for any player to beat that number, since many believed it was “unreachable.”

But LeBron thought otherwise, and on his 20^th season and 1410^th games, James stripped Jabbar of the title and build his own record that would surely stay for decades.

Longevity, resilience, and consistency were the key to LeBron’s feat.

Longevity means playing 1410 games for 20 seasons. Resilience was finding a way to score at any angle on the floor – be it a dunk, a lay-up, a perimeter jumper or a three pointer – LeBron had a little of everything in his repertoire against any type of defense thrown on him. And consistency, it’s no brainer – LeBron has been scoring heavily against any teams in the league. He consistently dominated against younger players.

The scrawny “Kid from Akron” has now claimed the throne as “The King.”

Most basketball fans knew that LeBron is a “pass-first” player. As evident of his pass-first mantra – James just recently became the No.4 in all-time leader in assists with 10,354 dimes behind John Stockton (15,806), Jason Kidd (12,091) and Chris Paul (11,283 and counting). He is often criticised for “not wanting” to take the last shot when the game is on the line. Many branded him “LeChoke,” for not scoring when it mattered most.

But James transcends all these negative vibes as he continued to play his best, and now, he is on top of the heap of the all the greatest who ever played the game. He may not be the greatest of all time, as many basketball fans always alluded that title to Michael Jordan, his current achievement will surely awaken the GOAT debate again.

What’s left for the Lakers to do to cement James’ achievement by at least making it to the playoffs. With more than 40 games left to the regular season, a playoffs spot is achievable for the Purple and Gold. With a healthy AD and the latest acquisition of Rui Hachimura, the Lakers is looking good. I think the current line-up has what it takes to go all the way.

All they need to do is play DEFENSE. Forget trade, make everybody work. Let out those shooters and play intelligent ball game. LeBron still has enough gas left in his tank to take the Lakers to the championship.

When Jabbar took over the All-time scoring title from Wilt Chamberlain, the “Showtime Lakers” made it to the Finals, losing the title to its bitter rivals Boston Celtics 4-3.

The all-time scoring achievement will be sweeter if James and the Lakers will make the playoffs, at least. That would be the icing on the cake.

Otherwise, it’s just like winning 73 games but failing to win the championship.