Players, coaches, legends and the American president congratulated LeBron James on breaking the NBA scoring record. The star basketball player of the Los Angeles Lakers scored 38 points in Tuesday’s game against Oklahoma City (130:133) and with 38,390 points he became the best scorer in the history of the competition.
The previous record holder was the star of the 70s and 80s Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. “I always knew that the record could be broken. It just needed someone who would continue to focus on the offense,” said 75-year-old Abdul-Jabbar, who congratulated James personally on the field.
“LeBron’s career is the career of a man who planned to dominate the sport. And he’s been doing it for almost 20 years. You have to give him credit just for the way he plays and the longevity and dominance he’s had,” added the 38,387-point author.
Another former legend, Magic Johnson, appreciated the fact that James created a new record in the jersey of the Los Angeles club. “I never thought anyone would break Kareem’s record. It makes it all the more valuable to me and our fans that you wear the purple and gold and you did it as a Laker. It’s a historic moment because we will never see another LeBron James.” said the five-time NBA champion.
Congratulations to James also came from the White House from US President Joe Biden: “You broke an amazing record with all your heart and soul. You elevated the sport. What’s more, like Kareem, Bill Russell and others who came before you, you inspired the whole nation.”
According to NBA commissioner Adam Silver, the extraordinary thing about James’ performance is that he reached it while still at full strength. “It is a monumental performance that confirms his consistent excellence during 20 seasons in the league. And it is amazing that LeBron is still playing at the highest level and his basketball history is still being written,” said the head of the best league in the world.
Kyrie Irving, his teammate from Cleveland’s 2016 championship team, expects James to continue his great performances. to congratulate him, celebrate him as much as possible and still enjoy the show he’s putting on,” said the new Dallas signing.
Legendary San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich had words of appreciation for his long-time rival: “LeBron is a confident person. He knows he’s a great player. He knows what he’s accomplished. But he still has his humility. He hasn’t lost it.” praised the new NBA record holder, its five-time winner Popovich.
