LeBron James’ longevity is approaching unprecedented levels, and to fully appreciate it, one has to look beyond mere statistics.
Yes, he’s averaging 29.7 points on 51.1 percent shooting, 8.4 rebounds and 7.0 assists per game this season, including 37.0 points, 9.7 boards and 8.7 assists since turning 38 years of age on Dec. 30.
But there is another lesser-known feat that speaks to James’ staying power in his 20th season.
After playing against Houston Rockets big man Jabari Smith Jr. on Monday, the four-time MVP has now played against nine father-son duos throughout his career.
It is an incredible feat when one considers how long one must stay in the league to do so.
LeBron James has played against these father-son duos:
Kenyon & KJ Martin
Gary Trent Jr & Sr
Gary Payton Sr & II
Rick Brunson, Jalen Brunson
Glenn Robinson Jr & III
Adrian Griffin Sr & Jr
Glen Rice Sr & Jr
Jabari Smith Sr & Jr
Samaki Walker, Jabari Walker🤯🤯🤯 pic.twitter.com/8viqGicP4C
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 17, 2023
Smith’s father played four seasons in the NBA starting in the 2000-01 campaign, which means James played against him at the beginning of his career.
A special moment for the Smiths
During Monday’s contest, the younger Smith let James know that his very first NBA game came against his father.
“You played against my dad in your first @NBA game ever.” -Jabari Smith Jr.
“Why you do that to me?!” –@KingJames
“You feel old don’t you. 🤣🤣” -JSR.
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) January 17, 2023
The elder Smith was then a member of the Sacramento Kings when James made his NBA debut during the 2003-04 season.
If the comment made James feel old, he didn’t act like it, as he exploded for a season-high 48 points in a 140-132 win.
Right after the game, the elder Smith was beaming with pride as he embraced James.
Will never forget the smile on my dads face💯one of the best days of my life. https://t.co/Z65vEfdYzl
— Jabari Smith Jr (@jabarismithjr) January 17, 2023
As his recent Nike commercials have suggested, James is laughing in the face of Father Time.
