The NBA delivered another unforgettable night of action as LeBron James broke yet another Michael Jordan record, Victor Wembanyama celebrated his 100th NBA game with a stellar performance, and the Oklahoma City Thunder extended their winning streak to 14 games. Here’s a breakdown of the key moments from a night of historic milestones and thrilling matchups.
LeBron James Surpasses Michael Jordan for 30-Point Game Record
LeBron James continues to rewrite the history books. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar scored 30 points in a dominant 119-102 win over the Atlanta Hawks, marking his 563rd career 30-point game. With this performance, the 40-year-old NBA all-time scoring leader surpassed Michael Jordan for the most 30-point games in league history.
Anthony Davis complemented LeBron’s effort with 18 points—17 of which came in the first half—and 19 rebounds. Despite a valiant 33-point effort from Trae Young, the Hawks fell short as the Lakers solidified their position in the Western Conference playoff race.
Congrats to @KingJames of the @Lakers for moving into 1st all-time in 30+ POINT GAMES! pic.twitter.com/SRiZwgG3Ty
— NBA (@NBA) January 4, 2025
LeBron’s ability to perform at an elite level even at this stage of his career is a testament to his longevity and consistency. Fans and analysts alike are left marveling at how “King James” continues to dominate the league.
Victor Wembanyama Shines in 100th NBA Game
On the eve of his 21st birthday, French phenom Victor Wembanyama celebrated his 100th NBA game in spectacular fashion. The 7-foot-3 superstar played a pivotal role in the San Antonio Spurs’ 113-110 victory over the Denver Nuggets.
Wembanyama recorded 35 points, 18 rebounds, four assists, and a critical steal in the final moments to seal the win. His last-minute heroics included assisting Chris Paul on a go-ahead jumper with 54 seconds left and intercepting a Nikola Jokic pass with just four seconds remaining, leading to Devin Vassell’s game-clinching dunk.
In his first 100 games, Victor Wembanyama has more:
– Points than LeBron, Durant, and Carmelo.
– Rebounds than AD, Ewing, and Embiid.
– Blocks than Shaq, Mutombo, and Olajuwon.
– Threes than Curry, Klay, and Trae Young.NEXT UP (via @AirlessJordan) pic.twitter.com/HOTxqqmIl0
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 4, 2025
In a showdown of elite big men, Wembanyama went toe-to-toe with three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, who tallied 41 points, 18 rebounds, and nine assists. The duel showcased why both players are considered among the best in the league today.
This season, “Wemby” has continued to dazzle, averaging 25.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 3.9 blocks, and 3.3 three-pointers per game. His unique blend of size, skill, and versatility has made him a generational talent and a cornerstone for the Spurs’ future.
Oklahoma City Thunder Make Franchise History
The Oklahoma City Thunder matched their franchise’s longest win streak—14 games—by defeating the New York Knicks 117-107 at home. The streak, last achieved during the 1995-96 season when the team was the Seattle SuperSonics, highlights the Thunder’s remarkable form this season.
Canadian guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 33 points, hitting 12-of-26 from the field and a perfect 7-of-7 from the free-throw line. Jalen Williams added 20 points, while Aaron Wiggins contributed 19 off the bench. Thunder reserves outscored the Knicks bench 35-5, a critical factor in their victory.
The Knicks, who entered the game on a nine-game win streak—their longest since 2013—dominated the first half, closing the second quarter with a 23-10 run to lead 66-54 at halftime. However, the Thunder mounted a comeback, outscoring the Knicks 34-22 in the fourth quarter. An 8-0 Thunder run early in the final period turned the game in their favor, with key contributions from Isaiah Joe and Wiggins sealing the win.
“We’ve been down at halftime before,” said Gilgeous-Alexander. “Our message is to stick to our identity. We play a long game, and things can change quickly.”
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Cavaliers Extend Win Streak to Nine
The Cleveland Cavaliers maintained their league-best record (30-4) with a 134-122 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Evan Mobley starred for the Cavs, scoring 34 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
The Mavericks, who were without Luka Dončić due to a left calf strain, suffered their fourth consecutive loss. Cleveland capitalized on Dallas’ struggles, showcasing why they remain the team to beat this season.
Celtics Dominate Rockets in Title Defense
The reigning NBA champion Boston Celtics cruised to a 109-86 win over the Houston Rockets. Derrick White led Boston with 23 points, while Jayson Tatum and Payton Pritchard added 20 points each.
Boston improved to 26-9, while the Rockets, now 22-12, continue to grapple with injuries. Houston forward Jabari Smith Jr. is expected to miss 4-8 weeks with a fractured left hand sustained during practice.
Other Highlights: McCollum Shines, Orlando Triumphs
In a battle of the league’s bottom-ranked teams, C.J. McCollum erupted for 50 points, shooting 18-of-27 from the field, to lead the New Orleans Pelicans to a 132-120 victory over the Washington Wizards.
Elsewhere, Orlando’s Tristan da Silva scored a career-high 25 points in a 106-97 win over the Toronto Raptors, while Tobias Harris tallied 24 points to lift the Detroit Pistons over the Charlotte Hornets, 98-94.
