The GOAT (greatest of All time) debate in the NBA might have multiple contenders – Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Bill Russell, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are some prominent names that are always in discussion. While the GOAT debate is subjective very few can argue related to the longevity and consistency LeBron has shown in his 22-season career. Just putting in numbers, the star has broken multiple records clocking the most minutes in the regular season and playing most matches amongst the active players. LeBron James and Bronny James Become First Father-Son Duo to Play For Same Team in NBA Regular Season History, Achieve Feat During LA Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves NBA 2024-25 Match (Watch Video).

Points, steals, rebounds, steals, blocks and assists – name an NBA stat; LeBron James will be in top 10 or even the top-5 of most of these major stats. If we dig deep and go niche like FG made, FG missed or even the turnovers fans will find LBJ’s name in the mix. Putting aside the regular season records, The king has made a mark on special games including Christmas Day games and playoffs. While these stats are sign of his high-level performances and consistency.

Yet there are some performances from LeBron James that defined his illustrious career. Check out five such unforgettable performances from LBJ below.

Five Unforgettable Performances From Age-Defying Basketball Megastar - LeBron James

 

1. The Debut in 2003: LeBron James to the NBA to this day is the most hyped debut in league history. All eyes were on him as the pressure to be great was already bestowed upon him. But the ‘kid from Akron’ wasn’t the one to be put under pressure. He hit the ground running. All he cared about during every game interview was getting a win. With a filed stat like pro – rookie LeBron scored 25PTS/9ASTS/6RBS/4STLS/with 60% FG. James went on to average 20.9 points, 5.9 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game in his rookie season. LeBron James Records Most NBA Regular Season Games With 10+ Points, Surpasses Legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar During Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings Match.

LeBron James' Debut

2. Taking the Cavaliers to the 2007 NBA Finals: With no all-star calibre player on the roster, everything fell upon LeBron James who took the responsibility right from the start. Cavs made to the NBA finals in 2007, courtesy of another massive season from LeBron. Sadly, they were outdone by experienced and star-studded Spurs in the final but that post-season highlighted LeBron’s thirst to be the best and champion.

3. 2016 ‘The Block’: LeBron James had won NBA championships earlier with the Miami Heat but his win with the Cavs was the most iconic one. Still, a most marketed play, the 2016 NBA Final game number six block on Andre Iguodala is one of the memorable moments in LeBron’s career. King James shed tears winning the Franchise’s first title and also defeating the definite champion side in the process.

LeBron James' Iconic Block

4. 2020 Championship: The NBA had to a cut-down the season following pandemic period and matches were played in difficult conditions with no spectators in the building. LeBron James, paired with next-gen star Anthony Davis delivered Los Angeles Lakers’ record 17th title. LeBron James Reacts After Clocking Most Minutes in NBA Regular Season History During Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers Game, Says 'It's Just a Commitment'.

5. Most Points in Regular Season: Playing with the most successful franchise, LeBron James broke the record for most points scored in the regular season surpassing former Lakers star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He went on to cross the 40K mark and became the player with the most points in basketball in the world.

Born on December 30, 1984, LeBron James will be celebrating his 40th birthday very soon and join the elite group of players who played after the big 4-0. Yet neither of the stars were at LeBron’s level and mostly played supporting roles. Still carrying the Lakers on his shoulders, LeBron James will always be seen as an epitome in the NBA.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 30, 2024 07:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).