Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record which has stood for almost 40 years is nearing its end. In a matter of a few weeks, LeBron James is set to pass him. It is also perhaps the greatest NBA record, the all-time leader in points scored.
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By all estimations, we will see James break it on Feb 7th. And given his insane longevity, he will only continue to push the bar further up. 40,000 points maybe?
Who knows, but before James, Kareem was the ultimate barometer for longevity. He has also played in 20 seasons in the NBA. He held a lot of records, including most all-star games, most all-NBA team selections, most blocks in NBA history, and more.
But as time progressed a lot of these records fell. And the one unwavering flag in the wind is about to be brought down too.
Pat Riley still believes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the greatest of all time
For a coach like Pat Riley to call you the greatest of all time is no small feat. “I always said that Kareem was the greatest player of all time because of his longevity,”, says Riley.
He also touches on the fact that after seeing Jordan and LeBron and how their longevity is comparable to Kareem’s. And while the feat of breaking the scoring record is something James will surely savor, it is another thing he wants.
Titles. Even at this stage in his career, Riley believes that LeBron is looking for that elusive prize. His 5th, one that would put him level with Kobe and surely, one step closer to Jordan.
Also read: Kobe Bryant Once Gave Insight Into Mamba Mentality, Shared GOLDEN Words To Deal With Self-Doubt
Pat Riley thinks LeBron James and the Lakers can win
We’re not talking about one game, according to Riley, the Lakers can win the whole thing. In an ESPN interview with Ramona Shelburne, Pat had this to say,
“But he wants to win titles; that’s what drives him. And so for him to continue to play at this level, with that hope that this team is going to come together out there and Anthony Davis gets back, I think they got a shot. I really do. And I believe he believes that too.”
And while we admire Riley’s enthusiasm and almost disillusioned belief, we are pretty sure that the Lakers won’t win this year. In a year where he breaks the scoring record and wins a title, at year 20?
The debate for the greatest of all time will surely be flung open. Who’s to say it won’t happen? We reckon Kareem might be on the side of the naysayers this time.
