LOS ANGELES (AP) – LeBron James’ first triple-double after turning 40 was impressive enough.
The fact that he did it one day after flying from Los Angeles to Atlanta and back just so he could cheer on his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes at the College Football Playoff championship game?
That’s the type of sporting feat only the greats would even try to pull off.
James showed neither jet lag nor fatigue while racking up 21 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 111-88 victory over the Washington Wizards yesterday.
He spent Monday night 2,200 miles away in a luxury box at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, trading high-fives with old friends and family while watching the Buckeyes’ title-clinching victory over Notre Dame.
“It was great to be there,” James said. “I was (also) there 10 years ago, I believe, when they won it. I was there in Dallas when they won it. To be there yesterday with a lot of my family and friends, it was super cool to be able to have that moment. We’re all diehard Ohio State fans back home.”
James has been an Ohio State football supporter since his childhood in Akron. He watches them on television and turns up in person whenever possible – including in January 2015, when Urban Meyer’s Buckeyes beat Oregon at AT&T Stadium to win the inaugural Playoff.
James is a four-time NBA champion, but he’s also a genuine sports fan who still gets thrills from witnessing historic moments.
“Anytime you see championship-caliber teams go out and play to a level of excellence, it’s always inspiring,” James said.
“No matter if it’s college or if it’s pros, whatever the case may be, it’s always inspiring. So I’m always inspired by greatness.”
James’ trip would be more daunting if he hadn’t travel in a private jet. He scored 25 points for the Lakers against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night before his long Monday, and he returned against Washington with his 121st career triple-double – the fifth-most in NBA history.
