Lakers star LeBron James scored 39 points against Brooklyn Nets on Saturday to blow past late franchise legend Kobe Bryant and become the number one all-time Christmas Day scorer.
James entered Christmas Day only 13 points shy of Bryant’s (395 points) record and two field goals (137) shy of passing Bryant for the most on Christmas as well. The King secured the scoring record during the second quarter and the field goal record during the first half and shot an efficient 7-11 from the field. James now has 422 overall points on Christmas Day.
Despite James scoring 39 points on 14-25 shooting, the Nets held off the Lakers late to win 122-115 and hand LA their fifth straight loss. While passing Bryant for any record is significant, losing makes the feat lose some of its impact for many players, including James.
“I don’t really care about the way I play if it comes in a loss,” James said after the game per USAToday.
James has won 10 games on Christmas Day, tied with Dwyane Wade for the most in NBA history. This was also James’ 16th Christmas Day game, tying the Black Mamba for most appearances in League history.
The Lakers return to play on Tuesday against the Rockets (10-23).
