NEW YORK — LeBron James reached a significant milestone on Saturday night, notching his 2,500th career 3-pointer while also achieving his 10th triple-double of the current season in a game that celebrated the Lakers’ 128-112 win over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. This marked James’s 31st appearance in the iconic venue, where he now boasts an impressive record of 23 wins against 8 losses. It was also a momentous occasion for his son, Bronny James, who was experiencing the storied arena for the first time.
In a performance that highlighted his remarkable skills, LeBron finished with an impressive stat line of 33 points, 12 assists, and 11 rebounds. He expressed his appreciation for Madison Square Garden, reflecting on its historical significance and the many artists and athletes that have graced its stage. “I understand the history of this building,” LeBron remarked, emphasizing the honor of being a part of its legacy over his 20-plus years in the league.
As the game progressed, fans transitioned from cheering for LeBron to chanting “We want Bronny! We want Bronny!” in the final moments. Bronny finally made his entrance onto the court with just 1:50 left in the game, managing to score with a layup—his only shot attempt. Although Bronny had heard stories from his father about the charm of the arena, he initially felt indifferent upon entering, describing it merely as an older building. However, once he was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd filled with celebrities, he quickly grasped the allure of the venue. “Getting a bucket in here … it’s insane,” he shared.
LeBron James has undeniably made his mark in this historic venue, coming into the game averaging an impressive 28 points per game. With his first 3-pointer of the night, he joined an exclusive list of just six other players in NBA history to have reached 2,500 career 3-pointers. Having recently surpassed Kyle Korver on the all-time list, he now sets his sights on Reggie Miller, who holds the sixth spot with 2,560 made shots from beyond the arc.
James expressed his pride in his continuous growth throughout his 22-year career, noting how he has developed a versatile game that makes him a threat from both the perimeter and inside. However, it was the experience of sharing the court with his son that brought him the most joy. He referred to this moment as “probably the greatest thing I’ve ever been a part of.”
The two shared a memorable dinner with friends and family in New York the night before, and the day culminated in playing together before a packed audience. LeBron conveyed how special the experience was, especially considering how he had missed many of Bronny’s significant achievements during his childhood, including his AAU and high school games. “For me to be able to see all the buckets he’s had as an NBA player with us, to be here with him is just special,” LeBron noted, highlighting the emotional significance of the occasion for both him and his son.
