LeBron James scores 20 points to lift Sixers over Knicks
LeBron James posted a 20-point, nine-rebound, eight-assist performance as Philadelphia beat New York 98-93, moving the Sixers to a 5-1 start.
Philadelphia secured a 98-93 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday night, improving to 5-1 on the season. After Jalen Brunson's late three-pointer erased an 11-point fourth-quarter lead, LeBron James responded with a mid-court jumper and a decisive put-back layup in the final seconds.
Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse said James delivered "his best game for sure" as a Sixer. Guard Tyrese Maxey described James as a "calming presence" in clutch moments, noting that all five of the team's wins have come when the game was within five points in the final five minutes.
James recorded his first 20-point game with the Sixers, finishing with 20 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. The performance made him the fifth-oldest player in NBA history to score 20 points in a game, matching Kareem Abdul-Jabbar at 41 years, 304 days. He also became the player over 40 with the most 20-point games, surpassing the combined total of his peers.
James acknowledged the longevity of his career, saying he did not expect to play at a high level for 24 years. He expressed enjoyment of his role with the Sixers, adding, "I'm having a great time... I'm more than happy that I made the decision to come here."