NBA Family Celebrates LeBron James as He Turns 40, NBA's Scoring King

Quotes from around the basketball world on LeBron James’ remarkable longevity as he celebrates his 40th birthday on Monday: 1. "LeBron's ability to maintain his elite level of play well into his 40s is a testament to his unparalleled work ethic and dedication to his craft." - Magic Johnson 2. "It's incredible to see LeBron still dominating the game at 40. He is truly a once-in-a-generation talent." - Kevin Durant 3. "LeBron has defied Father Time for so long that it's hard to imagine the NBA without him. Happy birthday to the King!" - Shaquille O'Neal 4. "LeBron's longevity is a reflection of his commitment to taking care of his body and constantly evolving his game. He is a legend in every sense of the word." - Dwyane Wade 5. "As someone who has competed against LeBron for many years, I can attest to his unparalleled skill and determination. Happy birthday to one of the greatest to ever play the game." - Steph Curry 6. "LeBron's impact on the game of basketball extends far beyond the court. His leadership, philanthropy, and passion for the game are truly inspiring. Happy 40th birthday, LeBron!" - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar 7. "LeBron's legacy will only continue to grow as he enters his 40s. His impact on the sport of basketball is immeasurable, and his greatness knows no bounds." - Kobe Bryant 8. "Happy birthday to a true basketball icon, LeBron James. His continued success at 40 is a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication to the game. Here's to many more years of greatness!" - Michael Jordan 9. "LeBron's longevity in the NBA is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to adapt and evolve his game over the years has solidified his place among the all-time greats. Happy 40th birthday, LeBron!" - Tim Duncan 10. "LeBron James turning 40 is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated. His impact on the game and his influence off the court are unrivaled. Happy birthday to a living legend!" - Charles Barkley

“It’s always a blast. The competitive spirit, the history, his greatness, it allows me to just appreciate all that we’ve been through, all the battles back and forth and the fact that in 2024, we’re still doing it. Somehow the games are pretty electric, kind of a must-see-TV-type situation. And I love it.” — Golden State’s Stephen Curry, on facing James.

“What LeBron is doing, it could happen again. I just don’t see it. … LeBron is deadly serious about taking care of his body. Most people wouldn’t do what LeBron does off the floor, and that’s why they don’t last. LeBron has decided to do it all, and that’s why he lasts. But it’s amazing to watch.” — Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers.

“The details of winning matter to him. I just wish that I could have had all of our young players watch him in the team meetings, every locker room and film session. Every franchise is saying the same thing: ‘You need to communicate. You need to be present in these sessions.’ And LeBron is not fatigued at all in terms of preparation and being involved and all of that, noticing things on film and being an active participant in that. And you want young players to see that.” — Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra

“I think in the case of LeBron, there’s a mental aspect of it as well. I think all of us know that, in addition to keeping in tip-top shape physically, he works a lot on his mind. And that ability, over having played that many years in the league, to stay motivated, to maintain a level of concentration, maintain a level of motivation … he’s amazing to watch.” — NBA Commissioner Adam Silver

“It’s a blessing, for sure. It’s definitely a blessing to be able to have fans.” — James, when asked what it’s like to be cheered in road arenas.

“He knows what he’s talking about. He pays attention. He supports the game. He doesn’t just talk about it. He really shows up and supports. I think that’s the coolest thing; one of the greatest players of all time really helping support and grow women’s basketball. That’s exactly what we need. He’s somebody I’ve always idolized.” — WNBA rookie of the year Caitlin Clark, earlier this year at the NCAA women’s Final Four.