LeBron James is 41 years old, but he continues to do this: record and statement against the Knicks
The King was decisive in the last quarter to seal the victory by 98-93 in the NBA Cup, and he also reached 68 games scoring 20 or more points after turning 40 years old.
LeBron James has already delivered his first major decisive performance with the Philadelphia 76ers jersey. The veteran forward was crucial in the fourth quarter to seal the 98-93 victory against the New York Knicks in the NBA Cup, in a game that allowed the Sixers to extend their season record to five wins and one loss. At 41 years old, James once again proved that he is still capable of making a difference when games reach their most critical moments.
The game had become complicated for Philadelphia after Jalen Brunson made a three-pointer after a step-back, cutting the Sixers' 11-point lead in the final quarter. The reaction sparked euphoria among Knicks fans present at the Xfinity Mobile Arena, but James quickly took care of extinguishing it.
On the next possession, the forward received the ball with his back to OG Anunoby, dribbled twice toward the center of the court, and executed a turnaround jumper that restored Philadelphia's lead. Soon after, he capitalized on an offensive rebound to score again and put his team five points ahead with just 11.9 seconds remaining. Two consecutive actions that ultimately decided the game.
Nick Nurse believes it was his best performance with Philadelphia
The importance of James in the victory did not go unnoticed by Nick Nurse. The Sixers coach highlighted the veteran's performance, which had been strong since his arrival, but against New York, he delivered his most complete game with the franchise so far.
“He has been performing well, but this was undoubtedly his best game,” commented Nurse.
Tyrese Maxey also emphasized James' influence during the most critical moments. The guard described the four-time NBA champion as a “presence that brings calm,” a particularly important trait in a team that has secured all five of its season wins in games decided by five points or less in the final five minutes.
The victory against the Knicks also held special significance due to the recent history between the two franchises. New York had strung together six consecutive wins against Philadelphia before this season, including a second-round playoff series in which they swept the Sixers on their way to the NBA title. Nurse's team has already managed to defeat their New York rivals twice in the early part of this season.
“After all, it’s LeBron James,” said Maxey. “He can do things like he did tonight; a couple of crucial baskets.”
A new historic record for LeBron at 41 years old
The game also featured several individual statistics that reflect James' competitive longevity. His 20 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists marked his first game with at least 20 points while wearing the 76ers jersey. In addition, he reached 68 games scoring 20 or more points after turning 40 years old.
This figure has historical significance: it surpasses the 67 games of at least 20 points combined by all other players aged 40 or older in NBA history. James also tied Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the fifth-oldest player to achieve a game with at least 20 points, at 41 years and 304 days.
| Record | LeBron James Data |
|---|---|
| Age | 41 years and 304 days |
| Points | 20 |
| Rebounds | 9 |
| Assists | 8 |
| 20+ point games after 40 years | 68 |
| First 20+ point game with the 76ers | Yes |
| Philadelphia's record this season | 5-1 |
James acknowledged that he usually does not pay much attention to these types of statistics, although he did express surprise at having managed to extend his career for so long while maintaining such a high level.
"I'm not going to lie and say I knew I would make it to 24 years; that's something I'm absolutely sure of," he said.
A game with ups and downs that he resolved in the final quarter
Although the outcome was brilliant, James' performance did not maintain the same intensity throughout the game. In the absence of Jaylen Brown, sidelined by a left knee injury, the forward started with great aggression, scoring 12 points on nine attempts in the first half.
However, his offensive involvement diminished after halftime. In the third quarter, he only attempted one field goal and ended the period with two points, both from the free throw line. His best version appeared when the Sixers needed him most: in the fourth quarter, he scored six points, including the two crucial free throws that allowed Philadelphia to secure the win.
James himself acknowledged that he is enjoying this new phase of his career and expressed satisfaction with the decision to join the team.
"I'm having a great time," said James. "... To be honest, I'm still a big kid, but it's a pleasure to be around these guys; I'm more than happy I made the decision to come here."
The 76ers will not have much time to celebrate the victory. This Saturday, they will visit the Charlotte Hornets in North Carolina, aiming to extend their strong start to the season. After six games, Philadelphia has a 5-1 record and features a LeBron James who is starting to find his best version in crucial moments.
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