LeBron James continues to etch his name deeper into NBA history, adding another impressive milestone to his already legendary career. During the 2024-2025 NBA season, James surpassed Michael Jordan for the most 30-point games in league history, tallying his 571st such performance and overtaking Jordan’s longstanding mark of 562. This achievement is more than just a statistical footnote—it’s a significant testament to James’ consistency, longevity, and scoring prowess.
When comparing eras, it’s always important to account for differences in pace, style of play, and competition. Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history, played 15 seasons and amassed 562 30-point games. His scoring dominance in the 1980s and 1990s helped shape the game and set the standard for future generations. Jordan’s scoring ability was marked by ferocious competitiveness, unmatched footwork, and a killer instinct in clutch moments. His 10 scoring titles are still a record, showcasing how central scoring was to his game.
LeBron James, on the other hand, has built his legacy over a different path. Now in his 22nd NBA season, James has maintained a remarkably high level of performance, adapting his game with age and evolving league trends. While he entered the league as a pass-first forward, his scoring ability has steadily grown and matured. With a combination of physical strength, basketball IQ, and a versatile offensive arsenal, James has been able to consistently score at an elite level well into his late 30s and now early 40s.
Surpassing Jordan in 30-point games reflects more than just scoring talent—it highlights LeBron’s durability and his ability to evolve. Few players in NBA history have managed to stay healthy and effective over such a long period. LeBron’s commitment to conditioning and his deep understanding of the game have allowed him to defy age-related decline, contributing at a superstar level against players nearly half his age.
This milestone also adds another layer to the never-ending debate over the greatest basketball player of all time. While Jordan’s six championships and perfect Finals record remain iconic, LeBron’s longevity, versatility, and statistical achievements continue to mount. He’s now the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, has passed Magic Johnson in career assists among forwards, and is among the all-time leaders in nearly every major statistical category.
It’s worth noting that while milestones like this spark comparisons, they also underscore how unique both Jordan and James are. Each dominated his era in ways that reflected the times and his individual greatness. For LeBron, surpassing Jordan in 30-point games isn’t just about passing a number—it’s about affirming his place in basketball’s upper echelon and showing that greatness can be sustained, not just achieved.
As LeBron James continues his remarkable career, milestones like this remind fans just how special his journey has been. Whether or not one believes he has overtaken Jordan in the GOAT debate, there’s no denying that LeBron has carved out a legacy unlike any other—a career defined by excellence, endurance, and historic achievements.
