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LeBron James Defies Time: A Career Like No Other, and His Cards Are Climbing

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LeBron James stepped onto the court in Portland last night on the second game of a back-to-back, knowing his Los Angeles Lakers needed a boost. At 40 years old, he could have rested. Instead, with Luka Dončić already sidelined, he delivered yet another historic performance, proving once again why he remains one of the greatest to ever play the game.

LeBron James Continues to Make NBA History

The Lakers secured a 110-102 win, and LeBron made headlines with another 40-point performance, becoming the only player in NBA history to record multiple 40-point games after turning 40.

The longevity of his dominance is unprecedented. While most players who reach their 40s in the NBA become role players or bench contributors, LeBron remains a top-tier superstar. His season averages—24.7 points per game, 7.7 rebounds per game, and 8.9 assists per game—would be impressive for any player, let alone one in his 22nd season.

LeBron’s consistency across two decades is staggering:

  • Eighteen seasons averaging over seven rebounds per game
  • Fourteen seasons averaging over seven assists per game
  • Every season except his rookie year averaging 25 or more points per game

Since arriving in the NBA at 19 years old, LeBron has been at the center of the league’s biggest moments, shouldering the weight of expectations while continuing to elevate his game.

A Resume That Speaks for Itself

LeBron James’ list of achievements is nearly impossible to match:

  • 21-time All-Star
  • Four-time NBA Champion
  • Four-time Finals MVP
  • Four-time NBA MVP
  • Six-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection
  • 20-time All-NBA selection
  • Fourteen top-five MVP voting finishes

Despite having nothing left to prove, LeBron continues to compete at the highest level, playing through injuries, outpacing younger players, and proving that his love for the game remains as strong as ever.

LeBron’s Legacy and the GOAT Debate

The conversations about LeBron versus Michael Jordan, the evolution of the NBA, and criticisms about the modern game have been debated for years. But what remains undeniable is that LeBron understands his impact—on the league, on his teammates, and on the next generation of fans.

As Lakers assistant coach JJ Redick put it in an interview with ESPN:

"He really just defies anything that's normal… not just the physical feats and the plays. It’s the mentality. He’s a billionaire, and he’s playing on the second night of a back-to-back at 40 after 22 years with every record and every accolade. It’s like, he’s amazing to coach. He sets the standard for how you're supposed to approach this craft."

LeBron remains one of the most respected figures in the NBA, with his influence stretching far beyond the game itself.

LeBron James Card Market Sees a Surge

LeBron isn’t just breaking records on the court—his trading card market continues to show strength as well.

Recent LeBron James rookie card sales:

  • 2003 Topps Chrome BGS 9 rookie card has increased 23 percent in the past three months, rising from $900 to over $1,100
  • 2003 Fleer Tradition PSA 9 rookie card has increased 26.9 percent, moving from $130 to $165

Collectors are actively investing in LeBron’s rookie cards, recognizing that his legacy will only grow as he continues to defy expectations.

Appreciating a Once-in-a-Lifetime Career

As LeBron continues to add to his legacy, fans and collectors alike should savor these final seasons. With his cards climbing in value and his place in NBA history already secured, there is no telling what record he will break next.