LeBron James sets record likely untouched for years after passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

LeBron James added another chapter to a career built on durability and precision during a return that carried history and emotion. In Cleveland, the Lakers star reached a minutes mark the league had never seen, doing it in a building that framed the earliest and most defining years of his journey. A sellout crowd watched James cross a milestone that showed longevity at the highest level, while the Cavaliers honored a player who reshaped the franchise. The Lakers faced a devastating defeat, but James’ record will remain untouched for years to come.James became the first player in NBA history to log 60,000 career minutes during the Lakers’ 129-99 loss to the Cavaliers. He reached the mark in his 24th minute after playing 27 minutes overall. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar sits second on the list with 57,446 minutes.James finished with 11 points, five assists, and three rebounds. At 41, James continues to post steady production while carrying a workload few players have matched across more than two decades.Midway through the first quarter, Cleveland paused to recognize James with a video tribute. The montage featured his 25 straight points against the Detroit Pistons in the 2007 Eastern Conference finals, a performance that sent the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals. James sat on the scorer’s table, looked up at the video board, and soaked it in.He wiped away tears as the tribute ended, a reaction that reflected the bond between player and city. James spent 11 seasons with Cleveland across two stints and delivered the franchise’s first title in 2016 after a 3-1 comeback against Golden State. With his retirement timeline uncertain, the moment carried added meaning. James will face the Cavaliers again on March 31 in Los Angeles.Cleveland took control after halftime and outscored the Lakers 72-44 in the second half, leading by as many as 34. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 25 points. Jaylon Tyson added 20 points, six rebounds, and six assists. De’Andre Hunter finished with 19 points, while Dean Wade and Thomas Bryant also reached double figures.As the lead grew, the crowd chanted, “We want Bronny! We want Bronny!” Bronny James checked in and energized the arena with a breakaway dunk followed by a 3-pointer. Luke Doncic scored 29 points for Los Angeles.