LeBron James Makes History as NBA’s Oldest Player to Tip Off a Season
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James stepped onto the Crypto.com Arena court Tuesday night, making history as the oldest player to begin an NBA season at 40 years old.
“It’s an amazing accomplishment. I Hope I can play that long.”
— Vince Carter, who played 22 seasons in the NBA
Before Tuesday, James shared the record with Vince Carter, who played 22 NBA seasons from 1998 to 2000. When asked about the record-setting milestone, James stated, “It was a lot of fun being out there with the guys, man. It’s been tough on me mentally, this is the first time I’ve started a basketball season and not played.
“
The stadium announcer proclaimed the feat, and James received a brief ovation from Lakers fans during the first quarter. The future Hall of Famer greeted the crowd by waving his hand.
Lakers Nation celebrates LeBron James for becoming the 1st player in NBA history to play 23 seasons in the league.
James’ Historic Night on the Court
The Lakers had a slow start, trailing by 11 points in the first minutes. However, James’s first points of his historic season came with a three-pointer from the wing at the beginning of the second quarter. As James heated up, so did the Lakers team. They closed the gap in the second quarter and took the lead in the second half, winning 140-125 against the Utah Jazz.
James achieved a double-double, scoring 11 points and dishing out 12 assists. Despite the win, Lakers coach JJ Redick had some words of praise for the veteran player, “I just think he played with the right spirit. Very unselfish all night. He passed the ball freely, didn’t force plays, penetrated and shot when he had the opportunity.
“
James’ Road to 23 Seasons
James missed the Lakers’ first 14 games of the 2025-26 season due to sciatica, a nerve problem that causes pain radiating down the back of the leg. This season marks James’ return to Lakers training after being absent since the beginning of training camp in early October due to what coach JJ Redick described as nerve irritation in his glute.
Rumors have circulated over the past year about James’ possible retirement, but in June, the four-time league MVP reportedly exercised his $52.6 million option to return for an eighth season with the Lakers.
LeBron James: The Flying Scoring Machine
Last year, in his record-tying 22nd season, James continued to show astonishing productivity, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists in 70 games. He had scored a record 42,184 points in the regular season and 50,473 points with the regular season and playoffs combined before Tuesday night’s debut.
Lebron James at a Glance
- Born: December 30, 1984 (Akron, Ohio)
- Age: 40
- Height: 6 ft 9 in (206 cm)
- Weight: 250 lb (113 kg)
- Position: Small forward, Power forward
- Draft: 2003, Cleveland Cavaliers (Round 1, No. 1)
- Seasons played: 23 (and counting)
- All-Star appearances: 21
Did you know?
LeBron James is the first NBA player ever to play at least 23 seasons in the league. Before him, Vince Carter was the longest-tenured NBA player with 22 seasons.
Pro Tip
To maintain your physical endurance like LeBron, focus on regular strength and conditioning, proper rest, and nutrition. Also, listen to your body – if something hurts, give it time to heal before returning to play.
Looking Ahead
With the 2026-27 season in sight, is LeBron James set to break yet another record? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – at 40 years old, there’s no sign of the four-time MVP slowing down anytime soon.
Join the Conversation!
What do you think about LeBron James breaking the record for the longest NBA career? Do you think he’ll break any more records this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!