LeBron James makes historic 23rd-season debut as Lakers crush Jazz 140-126
Nov, 20 2025
LeBron James didn’t need to score much to make history — he just needed to step onto the court. On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, the LeBron James made his season debut in what is officially the 23rd NBA season of his career, becoming the first player in league history to reach that milestone. The Los Angeles Lakers rolled past the Utah Jazz 140-126 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, turning a tight first half into a blowout with a crushing second-half surge. James, who sat out the first 14 games of the season, finished with 11 points and 12 assists, but his impact was felt far beyond the box score.
A Historic Night, Even Without a Big Scoring Night
James didn’t score in his first 11 minutes. But when he launched a three-pointer in the second quarter, it was official: he passed Reggie Miller for sixth on the NBA’s all-time three-pointers list. That shot extended his streak of consecutive games with double-digit scoring to 1,293 — dating back to January 6, 2007. No one else in NBA history has even cracked 1,000. The numbers are staggering, but what’s more remarkable is the consistency. He’s played through injuries, roster changes, and generational shifts — and still, he’s out here making history in November 2025, at age 40.
"He didn’t look like a 40-year-old," said one longtime Lakers season ticket holder in the stands. "He moved like he was still chasing a championship. And honestly? He still is."
Dončić Steals the Show — With a Little Help From the Bench
While James was making history, it was Luka Dončić who lit up the scoreboard. The Slovenian superstar dropped 37 points, 10 assists, and 5 rebounds, including 17 in the third quarter alone. That was the spark the Lakers needed after the Jazz led 71-67 at halftime. Dončić’s ability to create space, draw defenders, and find open shooters turned the game into a clinic. Austin Reaves added 26 points, and the Lakers’ bench outscored Utah’s 42-7 — a gap that told the whole story.
The Jazz, meanwhile, were running on fumes. They’d played a double-overtime thriller against the Chicago Bulls just two nights prior, and it showed. Keyonte George, the 21-year-old point guard born exactly 10 days after James’s NBA debut, matched his season high with 33 points (some sources say 34) and hit five three-pointers. Lauri Markkanen added 31, but Utah’s defense collapsed after halftime. "We were tired," said Jazz head coach Will Hardy postgame. "And we didn’t have an answer for their pace."
The Turnaround: A 21-5 Run That Broke the Game
The turning point came in the final 3:27 of the third quarter. The Lakers went on a 21-5 run that erased Utah’s lead and turned Crypto.com Arena into a roar. Dončić hit two step-back threes. Reaves drove through traffic for a layup. James, meanwhile, orchestrated the offense like a conductor — no flash, no showboating, just pure basketball IQ. By the time the fourth quarter began, the Lakers were up 10. The Jazz never got closer than six after that.
"That’s what happens when you’ve got a guy who’s played 22 seasons and another who’s in his prime," said ESPN analyst Jeff Van Gundy during the broadcast. "You get the perfect storm."
Bronny’s Moment: A Father-Son Night to Remember
With 3:33 left in the game, Bronny James checked in — the 20-year-old son of LeBron, now a rotation player for the Lakers. He didn’t take long to make his mark. On his first possession, he caught a pass at the top of the key, rose up, and drained a three-pointer. The arena erupted. Cameras flashed. His father, on the bench, gave a quiet nod and a thumbs-up. It was a moment that transcended stats — a father watching his son fulfill a dream they’ve talked about since Bronny was five.
"I didn’t know if I’d ever get to this point," Bronny said afterward. "But I knew if I kept working, Dad would be right there beside me."
What’s Next? A Rematch in Salt Lake City
The Jazz, now 5-9, head home to Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday, November 20. The Lakers, improved to 11-4 and riding a three-game win streak, will return to Salt Lake City on Sunday, November 22 — a rare back-to-back road trip against the same opponent. That rematch could be a statement game: Can the Jazz recover from this loss? Can the Lakers prove this wasn’t just a flash in the pan?
For now, the story is clear: LeBron James is still writing his legacy — not with dunks, but with durability. With leadership. With the quiet, relentless will to outlast time itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does LeBron James’ 23rd season compare to other NBA legends?
LeBron is the first player in NBA history to play 23 seasons. The closest active player is Kevin Durant at 16. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Robert Parish both played 20 seasons — the previous record holders. James has also surpassed 40,000 career points, 10,000 rebounds, and 10,000 assists — the only player to do so. His longevity defies physical norms and redefines what’s possible for elite athletes.
Why did LeBron sit out the first 14 games of the season?
The Lakers managed his minutes carefully after he dealt with a lingering hamstring strain in training camp. With the team’s strong start — 10-4 before his return — coaches opted to rest him for load management. The move paid off: he looked fresh and explosive in his debut, and the team’s depth allowed them to stay competitive without him.
What does this win mean for the Lakers’ playoff chances?
The Lakers are now firmly in the top 4 of the Western Conference, with a 11-4 record. With Dončić playing at an MVP level and James orchestrating the offense, they’ve become one of the most dangerous teams in the league. Their depth, especially from the bench, gives them an edge over teams that rely on just two stars. If they stay healthy, they’re serious title contenders.
How did Keyonte George’s performance compare to LeBron’s debut?
George, born on February 16, 2004 — exactly 10 days after LeBron’s debut on October 29, 2003 — scored 33 points in this game, matching his season high. LeBron, in his first NBA game, scored 25 points against the Sacramento Kings. Both were high-scoring debuts, but George’s performance came against a team with a 11-4 record, while LeBron faced a rebuilding Kings squad. The parallel is poetic, not statistical — a generational handoff in real time.
What’s the significance of the Jazz’s 7-point bench output?
That’s the lowest bench scoring total in the NBA this season. It exposed Utah’s lack of depth — they’re relying heavily on George, Markkanen, and Lauri Markkanen. When those starters get tired, there’s no reliable second wave. The Lakers, by contrast, got 26 from Reaves, 18 from D’Angelo Russell, and 12 from Gabe Vincent. That disparity is why the game got away from them after halftime.
Will LeBron play in the 24th season?
He hasn’t said no. In postgame interviews, he’s repeatedly said, "I still love the game." At 40, he’s in better shape than most players half his age. His contract runs through 2026-27, and the Lakers have no plans to phase him out. If his body holds up — and his mind still craves competition — there’s no reason he won’t be on the court in 2026. He’s not just playing basketball. He’s rewriting its rules.