LeBron James Defies Age Once Again as His Card Market Continues to Rise

• Posted: February 21, 2025, 1:45 pm
• in Sports Card News
• by bionic

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LeBron James took the floor in Portland last night for the second game of a back-to-back, knowing the Los Angeles Lakers needed a spark. At 40 years old, he could have taken the night off to rest, but with Luka Dončić already unavailable, James stepped up once again.

By the end of the game, the Lakers secured a 110-102 win, and LeBron made history. Scoring 40 points, he became the only player in NBA history to record multiple 40-point games after turning 40.

Unprecedented Longevity and Dominance​

Few players have even played in the NBA at 40 years old, and those who have are typically reduced to bench roles or veteran leadership positions. LeBron, on the other hand, continues to play at an elite level, averaging 24.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game this season.

His sustained excellence is unmatched:

• Eighteen seasons averaging over seven rebounds per game
• Fourteen seasons averaging over seven assists per game
• Every season except his rookie year averaging 25 or more points per game

Since entering the league at 19, LeBron has remained the face of the NBA, carrying the weight of expectations while continuing to set new records.

A Resume Unlike Any Other​

LeBron James' list of achievements is staggering:

• 21-time NBA All-Star
• Four-time NBA Champion
• Four-time NBA Finals MVP
• Four-time NBA MVP
• Six-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection
• 20-time All-NBA selection
• Fourteen top-five MVP voting finishes

Despite already securing his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history, he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible at his age.

The GOAT Debate and His Influence on the Game​

The ongoing debates about LeBron versus Michael Jordan, the evolution of the NBA, and criticisms about modern basketball often overshadow the reality of what LeBron continues to accomplish. Regardless of where he ranks in history, his dedication, longevity, and work ethic remain undeniable.

Lakers assistant coach JJ Redick described LeBron’s mindset in a recent interview with ESPN:

"He really just defies anything that's normal… 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 record and every accolade. It’s like, he’s amazing to coach. He sets the standard for how you're supposed to approach this craft."

LeBron's understanding of his role in the league, his commitment to the game, and his connection with fans continue to make him one of the most respected figures in basketball.

LeBron James Rookie Cards See a Surge in Value​

LeBron's dominance is not just being recognized on the court—his trading card market is also experiencing a steady rise.

Recent sales trends for LeBron James rookie cards:

• 2003 Topps Chrome BGS 9 rookie card has increased 23 percent in three months, moving from $900 to over $1,100
• 2003 Fleer Tradition PSA 9 rookie card has increased 26.9 percent, rising from $130 to $165

With LeBron continuing to rewrite history, collectors are actively investing in his cards, recognizing the long-term value of his legacy.

A Career to Appreciate in Real Time​

LeBron James has already achieved more than most players ever will, yet he continues to elevate his game. Fans and collectors alike should take the time to appreciate what he is still accomplishing. With his rookie cards rising in value and more records waiting to be broken, his story is far from over.