In 2002, many basketball fans were introduced to LeBron James, a high school junior dubbed "The Chosen One."
For the last two decades, James has lived up to the name and then some, exceeding the loftiest of expectations that were levied upon him during his teenage years. In his 20th NBA season, James is still the greatest show in the NBA, captivating fans from multiple generations with his brilliance, dominance and showmanship.
We know LeBron well now, but the way he commands his audience gives each legendary moment, award and record the same novelty as when we were introduced to him over 20 years ago. James' latest — and perhaps greatest — achievement is surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA's all-time leading scorer, a record that he is in a position to place in an unbreakable territory as he's showing no signs of slowing down.
MORE: Sights and sounds from LeBron's record-breaking night in LA
In commemoration and celebration of James' achievement, The Sporting News takes a look back at his journey from being the most hyped prospect in the history of American sports to becoming the NBA's all-time scoring king.
MORE: Yes, LeBron is the GOAT scorer... here's why.
There will always be time to debate the ways in which James' career measures and stacks up against other all-time greats, but with this latest achievement, it's important to remain in the moment and appreciate an unparalleled level of sustained greatness that may never come along again.
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