Even his most vocal critics can't deny LeBron James' place among the greatest players in the history of the game, especially after passing Wilt Chamberlain on the all-time scoring list. The NBA released a moving tribute video that included James and Chamberlain's rise to the NBA mirrored against one another:
As @KingJames passes Wilt Chamberlain on the all-time scoring list, we dive into the #NBAvault for the best access and moments of these two NBA legends! #ThisIsWhyWePlay pic.twitter.com/qMvxjMcpNC
— NBA (@NBA) November 15, 2018
The video chronicles James and Chamberlain's rise to the NBA, but it also featured many of the great moments from their careers. In fact, at one point Wilt is discussing some of his records and acknowledges that his records will be broken at one point. It's fitting to play Chamberlain's comments alongside footage of James in a Lakers uniform.
It's remarkable that five of the top six players on the all-time scoring list played for the Lakers at one point in their career. Kobe Bryant spent his entire career with Los Angeles, but the other four came to the Lakers after already establishing themselves. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's best years came in LA. Karl Malone only spent one disappointment-filled season with the Lakers.
Chamberlain was still dominant when he arrived in LA, as is James. James is on the back end of his career, but he still has a lot of basketball left to play. He and Wilt share an interesting connection with one another.
Both players will go down in history with the all-time greats. It can be difficult to assess the gravity of the moment while it's going on, but it's important to remember just how historically good LeBron James is.
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