NBA news: LeBron James returns for record-breaking season debut

LeBron James made history on Tuesday night, becoming the first player to compete in 23 consecutive NBA seasons, as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Utah Jazz 140-126 at Crypto.com Arena.

The 40-year-old superstar, returning after missing the first 14 games due to sciatica, contributed 11 points, 12 assists and three rebounds in 30 minutes of action.

By taking the court, James surpassed Vince Carter’s record for consecutive seasons, cementing his place as the league’s most enduring player.

His two first-half three-pointers also moved him past Reggie Miller to sixth on the NBA’s all-time list for three-point field goals.

Sports News Blitz’s Noah Ngcobo discusses James’ Lakers return.

A smooth return after long layoff

James had not played since the Lakers’ playoff exit last April, marking nearly seven months away from competitive action.

He returned to practice only on Monday, participating in his first full 5-on-5 session with the team. The Lakers had carefully monitored his rehabilitation, including a short stint with their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, to ensure he could handle back-to-back practices without discomfort.

“It was just fun to be out there with the guys,” James said after the game. “It’s been mentally tough being away at the start of the season.

“This was the first time in my career, since I was nine years old, that I didn’t start a basketball season.”

Lakers coach JJ Redick praised James’ performance, highlighting his unselfish play and decision-making.

“He played with the right spirit, was a willing passer and took his shots when they were there. The defence is going to pay attention to him, but he made excellent decisions all night,” Redick said.

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Luka Doncic shines as Lakers pull away

While James orchestrated the offense, Luka Doncic led the scoring with 37 points, including 17 in a dominant third quarter. The Slovenian star also added 10 assists and four steals, helping the Lakers pull away from Utah in the second half.

“He does things that other people can’t. He’s here to help all of us,” Doncic said of James.

The Lakers’ offense clicked as James distributed eight assists in the second half, including six in just over three minutes early in the fourth quarter.

Austin Reaves contributed 26 points, complementing James and Doncic, as Los Angeles improved to 11-4 on the season, claiming their third straight victory.

The win gave the Lakers a strong footing in the Western Conference standings.

Milestones continue to pile up

James also extended his streak of double-digit scoring games to an astounding 1,293 contests, a record that has been active since January 6, 2007.

His driving layup in the third quarter maintained the streak, demonstrating that even after months away, James remains a formidable presence.

New Lakers centre Deandre Ayton was particularly impressed by James’ court vision, noting an alley-oop connection that he described as only the second he had ever received from James, the first occurring years earlier at a youth camp.

Even LeBron’s son, Bronny James, saw some court time, hitting a three-pointer in the closing minutes.

Lakers poised for strong season

The Lakers’ offensive fireworks highlighted a high-scoring night that put them fourth in the Western Conference, while the Jazz fell to 10th.

With James back at full strength and Doncic in prime form, Los Angeles looks well-positioned to challenge for a top seed as the season unfolds.

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