LeBron James Hits a Major Milestone—What’s Next for the NBA’s Scoring Legend at 40?

When LeBron James set yet another NBA record earlier this month—most career regular-season minutes played—his Los Angeles Lakers teammates marked the occasion with humor.

“They told me I’m old as hell,” James joked.

They weren’t entirely wrong. Once heralded as “The Kid from Akron,” LeBron is now the 40-year-old from Los Angeles with traces of gray in his beard. On Monday, he celebrated a milestone birthday, becoming the first player in NBA history to compete in his teens, 20s, 30s, and now 40s. While such longevity is more common in sports like baseball and hockey, it’s unprecedented in the NBA.

LeBron is once again making history, adding another chapter to his extraordinary career.

Defying Age in an Unforgiving Sport

“In some ways, he’s a freak of nature,” remarked NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “He’s one of the hardest-working players I’ve ever seen. He doesn’t take a day off—always working on some part of his body or recovery.”

Turning 40 in the NBA often signals the twilight of a career. Only 29 players have competed in regular-season games at age 40 or older, and few have been impactful. Stars like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, John Stockton, Michael Jordan, and Karl Malone averaged more than 10 points per game post-40, but such performances are rare.

Yet LeBron is rewriting the rulebook. At 40, he’s still delivering All-Star numbers: 23.5 points, 9 assists, and 7.5 rebounds per game. Even achieving such stats at 30 is remarkable, let alone 40. Only LeBron and James Harden have posted similar numbers past age 30.

A Unique Physical and Mental Edge

Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, who coached LeBron during his time in Miami, reflected on what makes him exceptional. “The size, strength, and IQ… At one time, he was the best athlete on the planet. Now, even if he’s no longer the fastest, he could play off his brain and IQ alone for another decade if he wanted to.”

LeBron’s legendary fitness regime, rumored to cost over $1.5 million annually, includes meticulous training, recovery techniques, and constant care from personal athletic trainer Mike Mancias. This dedication has allowed him to remain a dominant force, competing with elite players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has praised LeBron for setting a new blueprint for career longevity.

“What he’s done is incredible,” said Antetokounmpo. “I want to play as long as my body allows, but LeBron has shown us how to push boundaries.”

Records and Legacy

LeBron’s accolades are endless: NBA all-time scoring leader, four-time champion, three-time Olympic gold medalist, and a net worth exceeding $1 billion. With 20 All-Star selections (soon to be 21), he continues to redefine greatness. From leading the league in points during his teens to dominating his 30s, he now enters his 40s as one of the sport’s most accomplished players.

But even as he continues to amaze, LeBron is aware of the limits. When asked about his 40th birthday, he replied, “Don’t make me feel old right now.” While under contract for next season, he hinted that retirement isn’t far off, saying he doesn’t plan to “play until the wheels fall off” out of respect for the game.

What Comes Next?

For fans, every game is a chance to witness history. “People pay attention every time he steps on the court,” Silver noted. “They know they’re watching one of the greatest ever.”

As LeBron begins the final decade of his basketball journey, his legacy is secure. Whether it’s as a teammate to his son Bronny—another unprecedented chapter—or as a global icon, his influence transcends the sport.

So, what do you give a 40-year-old who has everything? Perhaps just admiration, for continuing to defy expectations and inspire generations.

LeBron James at 40 is not merely a testament to longevity but to excellence, resilience, and an unyielding passion for the game.