Basketball fans often take LeBron James’ sustained greatness for granted, but Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick refuses to.
On Thursday, James became the first 40-year-old in NBA history with multiple games of 40-plus points, proving again that he’s a timeless wonder.
After the Lakers’ 110-102 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, Redick took a moment to put James’ ability to defy Father Time into perspective.
“He really just defies anything that’s normal,” Redick said of James. “And not just the physical feats and the plays.
It’s the mentality … He’s a billionaire, and he’s playing on the second night of a back-to-back at 40 after 22 years with every fricking record and every accolade.
The kids will say I’m glazing him. He’s one of the greatest competitors … It’s like, he’s amazing to coach. He brings it every single day. He sets the standard for how you’re supposed to approach this craft.”
Redick continued praising James’ dedication to his daily routine, which involves hitting the gym in the wee hours of the morning and never skipping a practice or film session.
The former NBA sharpshooter said he wasn’t sure if James would be cleared to play in Thursday’s back-to-back game, especially given his lingering toe/ankle injury.
Those were poignant words from Redick, who probably feels blessed to coach one of the greatest players ever in his first season as a head coach.
And no, he wasn’t “glazing” James in the slightest, for his words rang true and encapsulated the aging star’s dedication to his craft.
As James continues to produce at an elite level, it’s inarguable that he’s the greatest 40-year-old player in NBA history. In February, he’s averaging 29.9 points, 9.1 rebounds and 8.4 assists at 54/47/76 shooting splits, and he’s led the Lakers to a 5-2 record.
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