LeBron James Passes Kobe Bryant For 3rd on All-Time Scoring List

LeBron James entered the Los Angeles Lakers matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers just 18 points shy of passing a Lakers legend on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. With a layup in the third quarter, James passed Kobe Bryant for 3rd all-time on the league’s scoring list.

The moment LeBron James passes Kobe Bryant on the all-time points scored list.

With 33,644 career points, James moves into 3rd all-time.

Fans in Philadelphia tip their caps to the king. pic.twitter.com/UV03Vacxa4

— Lauren Rosen (@LaurenMRosen) January 26, 2020

James did so in a Lakers jersey, wearing the only colors Bryant donned during his illustrious NBA career. The milestone was also achieved in Philadelphia, Bryant’s hometown.

Bryant acknowledged James’ achievement on Twitter.

Continuing to move the game forward @KingJames. Much respect my brother 💪🏾 #33644

— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) January 26, 2020

The Philadelphia 76ers would prevail in the game by a score of 108-91, after a strong defensive showing. Nevertheless, the Philadelphia crowd saluted James with a standing ovation following his historic basket.

James finished with 29 points to bring his career total to 33,655. Kobe Bryant scored 33,643 points in his career over 1346 games, with a career average of 25.0 PPG. James surpassed Bryant’s scoring total in 1242 games (104 games quicker) with a career average of 27.1 points per game to this point.

Next up is Karl Malone, with 36,928 career points. The all-time leader is Kareem Abdul-Jabar, with 38,387 points.

LeBron James to move up the scoring list at current pace (25.3 PPG)

Karl Malone: 36,928 (129.4 games/1.6 seasons)
Kareem Abdul-Jabar: 38,387 (187 games/2.3 seasons)

His scoring pace could slow a little, but if he plays three more full seasons, he'll retire the all-time leader

— Sak Sports Blog (@SakSports) January 26, 2020