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LeBron James climbed two historic steps in one game during the Lakers’ 119-102 victory over Atlanta on Friday.

By taking the court, James passed former opponent and Hall of Fame forward Dirk Nowitzki for fourth place all-time in games played. James, who turned 40 last week, has played a total of 1,523 games, trailing only Robert Parish (1,611), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1,560) and Vince Carter (1,541) in that category.

Congratulations to @KingJames des @Lakers for fourth place all-time in the GAMES PLAYED category! pic.twitter.com/YzlIzmwRfn

– NBA (@NBA) January 4, 2025

James’ success in participation gives way to production. With his 30-point performance in Friday’s win, he passed Michael Jordan for the most career 30-point games in NBA history.

James hit an 18-foot jumper midway through the fourth quarter for the 563rd 30-point game of his 22-year career, breaking the record set by his childhood idol in 2003.

Congratulations to @KingJames des @Lakers for climbing to number 1 of all time in over 30 point games! pic.twitter.com/SRiZwgG3Ty

– NBA (@NBA) January 4, 2025

👑 pic.twitter.com/9xgkVRp2QE

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 4, 2025

The top spots in the league’s record books are increasingly filled with James’ name. The 20-time All-Star and former No. 1 overall pick ranks first all-time in scoring and total minutes, fourth in assists, seventh in 3-pointers made, and eighth in steals and eighth in defensive rebounds.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.