Although LeBron James’ reputation is already etched in history, he still aspires to become the first-ever NBA in-season tournament champion before hanging up his sneakers.

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 133-89, led by James’ 30 points in just 23 minutes, to move on to the first-ever in-season tournament final.

Anthony Davis, the center for the Lakers, commented of the atmosphere, “It was amazing.” None of us have ever participated in an in-season event, much less the finals. The buzz surrounding it, the mood, the intensity, and the sense of rivalry it fosters among groups. I anticipate having a good time.”

During the tournament, the Lakers moved to a perfect 6-0 record and defeated the Pelicans, Brandon Ingram, and Zion Williamson in the first-ever December showcase.

“The in-season tournament has been good to us,” James stated. However, on Saturday, we had to finish our breakfast. That’s what comes first.”

No one could have predicted a tournament like this in the middle of the NBA season twenty years ago. LeBron has been in the league for that amount of time.

LeBron was in the same 2003 NBA Draft class as current Pelicans head coach Willie Green, which explains why his NBA career has lasted so long. The Cleveland Cavaliers selected James with the first overall pick in the draft, while the Seattle Supersonics—a team that no longer exists—selected Green 40 picks later.

Twenty years later, James and Green were creating history in the NBA’s first-ever in-season competition. The Lakers will now have the opportunity to win an NBA in-season tournament for the first time, and they will also be $50,000 richer.

Head coach Darvin Ham of the Lakers responded, “I just know we came into this year wanting to build continuity and cohesiveness as quickly as possible,” when asked if he had discussed winning this tournament with his players. “Once the prize money and trophy were announced, it became evident to all that it aligned perfectly with our goals. Our goal is to establish a cadence and excel as a team.”

But Tyrese Haliburton and the young Indiana Pacers continue to obstruct their path.

The 23-year-old Haliburton and Indiana’s fastest and most effective offense will face the Lakers, one of the league’s oldest teams and home to LeBron James, the oldest player in the NBA.

In reference to Haliburton and the Pacers, Ham stated, “We’re definitely going to have our hands full.” “We can’t take them for granted by any stretch.”