At the age of 38 years and 10 months, LeBron James, the All-NBA forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, currently holds the title of the oldest player in the NBA. Yet, his ability to score at an elite level showcases the dedication and preparation he continues to invest in the game. James consistently shatters records and defies age-related expectations, and this season will be no exception, marking his 21st season in the NBA. Only five other players have achieved this milestone, and none have done so while maintaining such a high level of performance.
In the first two games of the 2023-24 season, James is already demonstrating his prowess, averaging 21 points with impressive shooting splits of .567/.222/.667, along with contributing eight rebounds, seven assists (alongside a respectable 2.5 turnovers), 1.5 steals, and one block. Last season, James tied Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with his 19th All-Star Game selection, and this season, his 20th selection will solidify his status as the NBA’s all-time record-holder.
It’s almost a given that James will once again be chosen to captain one of the All-Star teams, a yearly honor that seems likely to continue as long as he’s in the league. James has earned All-Star status every season since 2004-05, which is only his second season in the NBA. Even if he experiences a slight decline in his statistics or misses some games this year, it’s important to note that fan votes carry significant weight, accounting for 50 percent of the selection process, along with 25 percent from players and 25 percent from the media.
Furthermore, James benefits from his association with the Lakers, as the team boasts one of the largest fan bases in major sports, who eagerly contribute to his All-Star selections. Achieving a record-breaking 20th All-Star appearance might seem surreal, but it aligns with the extraordinary career trajectory of James. From entering the NBA with immense pressure and exceeding expectations, he continues to perform at an elite level, making history.
Expectations are high that James will once again secure an All-Star spot, joining a select group that includes Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Dirk Nowitzki (commissioner selection) as the only players in history to achieve this feat at the age of 39 or older, as reported by Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report. James’s longevity in the sport has been a remarkable journey to witness, and fans should acknowledge and appreciate the greatness he has brought to the game of basketball, irrespective of personal opinions about him.