January 4, 2025, was a landmark evening in the NBA as two of basketball’s all-time greats, LeBron James and Stephen Curry, each achieved remarkable records that further solidified their places in the sport’s history. On this special night, both players surpassed one of Michael Jordan’s enduring records, signalling not just their personal greatness, but also the evolving landscape of the NBA. Their accomplishments are a testament to their excellence and how they are reshaping the definition of greatness in modern basketball.
LeBron James Ties Michael Jordan’s Record for Most 30-Point Games
LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers forward, equalled Michael Jordan’s record for the most 30-point games in NBA history. In a commanding 114-106 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, LeBron finished with 31 points, marking his 562nd career 30-point game. This achievement tied him with Jordan, who previously held the record, and is considered a benchmark of scoring consistency.LeBron’s ability to maintain such a high level of performance, even after over two decades in the league, is a reflection of his adaptability, leadership, and remarkable physical prowess. Over the years, he has evolved his game, excelling not only in scoring but also in play-making, rebounding, and defense. His continued dominance, particularly into his 30s, has reshaped expectations for longevity in professional sports.
Stephen Curry Breaks Michael Jordan’s Record for Most 30-Point Games by a Guard Aged 35 or Older
On the same night, Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ sharpshooting point guard, also made history. Curry surpassed Michael Jordan’s record for the most 30-point games by a guard aged 35 or older, achieving his 40th such game. In the Warriors’ dominant 139-105 win over the Philadelphia 76ers, Curry dazzled by making 8-of-8 from beyond the arc, showcasing his perfect shooting performance. Curry, often considered the best shooter in NBA history, has revolutionized basketball with his range and accuracy. His ability to score from virtually anywhere on the court, especially from long distances, has made him a game-changing force in the NBA.
LeBron James and Stephen Curry: Redefining the NBA
Both LeBron James and Stephen Curry have long been entrenched as two of the greatest players of all time, and these recent accomplishments add yet another layer to their legacies. LeBron’s 30-point game record signifies not just his scoring ability but his incredible consistency and longevity. Tying Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history, reinforces LeBron’s argument as one of the best to ever play the game. His ability to stay dominant over such a lengthy career is unprecedented. Similarly, Curry’s ability to break Jordan’s record for the most 30-point games by a guard aged 35 and older highlights his unique style of play. While LeBron has maintained his dominance through size and versatility, Curry’s game revolves around finesse, footwork, and shooting.
The Impact on the NBA
The record-breaking feats of LeBron and Curry symbolize the changing nature of the NBA. Both players are pushing the limits of what elite play looks like in the modern game. LeBron’s transformation from a powerful forward into a versatile player capable of excelling in virtually every position exemplifies the evolution of “position-less” basketball. His ability to impact the game in so many ways—whether it’s scoring, passing, or defending—sets a model for the future of basketball. Meanwhile, Curry’s revolution of the three-point shot has reshaped how offenses are designed across the league. His influence has made shooting, spacing, and ball movement central tenets of modern basketball, with teams now prioritizing perimeter play to create more dynamic offenses. Both players have changed the way the game is played, and their continued success will ensure their influence is felt across the league for many years to come.
Conclusion
LeBron James and Stephen Curry’s record-setting achievements on January 4, 2025, mark another milestone in their illustrious careers. LeBron’s 562nd 30-point game ties him with Michael Jordan, while Curry’s 40th such game establishes a new benchmark for guards aged 35 and older. These achievements are not merely statistical—they are a testament to the enduring legacies of two of the greatest basketball players of all time.
