LeBron James, Triple-Double at 41 and Karl Malone Surpassed
LeBron James becomes the oldest player ever – surpassing Karl Malone – to record a triple-double, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a win over the Dallas Mavericks
At 41 years old, LeBron James continues to defy time and logic. In the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory over the Dallas Mavericks, the No. 23 added another chapter to his legend, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to post a triple-double, surpassing an icon like Karl Malone.
In 35 minutes on the floor, LeBron finished with 28 points, 12 assists, 10 rebounds and one block, shooting 10-of-20 from the field, 2-of-7 from three and 6-of-7 from the free-throw line. Numbers that already describe a dominant performance, but that take on historic significance in context: before him, only Karl Malone had recorded a triple-double after turning 40.
The difference? LeBron did it at 41 years and 44 days, becoming the oldest ever to achieve the feat. Malone had previously set the mark in November 2003 at 40 years and 127 days.
LeBron and Age: A Battle Won Every Night
In his 23rd NBA season, James continues to dismantle every narrative tied to physical decline. It’s not just longevity – it’s tangible impact on the game, leadership and elite-level consistency.
After the game, LeBron commented with his usual mix of humor and ease:
I’m just a goofy 41-year-old kid… that’s just who I am. I get paid to play basketball – why wouldn’t I have fun?
LeBron James
A quote that perfectly captures the moment: mental lightness, competitive fire and total awareness of his role.
With All-Star Weekend approaching, the Lakers will enter a brief stretch focused on physical management. They return to action on February 20, when LeBron and company host the Clippers in a matchup that already promises playoff-like intensity.
For now, one fact remains etched in history: at 41, LeBron James isn’t just holding off Father Time. He’s still making it.