LeBron James defies time to claim historic NBA record in emphatic win
LeBron James has become the oldest player in NBA history to record a triple-double, posting 28 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds to guide the Los Angeles Lakers to a 124-104 victory over the Dallas Mavericks.
The four-time champion secured the feat at 41 years and 44 days old, finally eclipsing the previous benchmark set by Karl Malone in 2003.
James grabbed his 10th rebound with just over two minutes remaining in the contest before receiving a standing ovation from the home crowd.
This latest milestone marks the 123rd triple-double of his illustrious career, ranking him fifth on the all-time list.
Chasing the Mailman
Karl Malone, famously known as ‘The Mailman’, had held the distinction for over two decades after recording a triple-double at 40 years and 127 days.
Remarkably, the former Utah Jazz legend also achieved his record while wearing a Lakers jersey during his final season.
James has been knocking on the door of history throughout the past year, recording the next 15 oldest triple-doubles on the statistical list.
However, the record had eluded the league’s all-time top scorer until the Lakers’ final game before the All-Star break.
It was his first triple-double since February 2025, a date synonymous with the blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to Los Angeles in exchange for Anthony Davis.
Stepping up without Doncic
With current NBA scoring leader Doncic sidelined due to a hamstring strain, the onus was on the veteran forward to orchestrate the offence.
James responded immediately, tallying 14 points and six assists in the opening quarter alone.
By half-time, the 22-time All-Star had already amassed 18 points, eight assists and four rebounds.
Despite missing 18 games this season through injury, he remains the driving force for a Lakers side in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race.
James entered the contest averaging 21.8 points per game, proving his longevity remains unmatched in professional basketball.