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James understood his monumental streak of reaching double digits was threatened. In that crucial moment, though, it didn't concern him.

The smart move involved passing the basketball – which is exactly what he did. With that selfless act, his remarkable run was over.

James's astounding streak of 1,297 consecutive NBA regular season outings scoring at least ten concluded on Thursday night, as the league's career points king finished with eight points during the Los Angeles Lakers' 123-120 win against the Toronto Raptors. He provided the clutch helper, setting up teammate Rui Hachimura for a three-pointer at the buzzer.

“None,” James said after being questioned regarding the conclusion of his run. “We won.”

An Unselfish Choice Delivers the Win

LeBron had the chance to tried to secure the game – and extended the streak – in the closing seconds, instead, he decided to pass to his teammate on the wing. Rui connected, with LeBron raised his arms triumphantly.

It's about playing basketball correctly. Always make the correct play,” James noted. “That’s just been my philosophy. That is the way I was taught the game. I’ve done that my whole career.”

“LeBron is fully cognizant exactly how many points he's scored during a game,” said the team's head coach JJ Redick. He made the play as he has done so many times.”

The Run's Final Moments

LeBron checked back into the game one last time at under five and a half minutes to go, the outcome and the streak both hanging in the balance. He had six points from a 3-for-15 performance at that juncture.

He got a bucket at 1:46 left to level the contest then missed a shot with 1:01 left which could have gotten him into double figures.

He didn’t take another shot – even though he had a chance. A teammate gave James the ball with a few seconds left, however, James opted to make the extra pass instead.

The spirits of the game, if you approach it correctly, they will bless you,” the coach concluded.

Reflecting on a Staggering Record

James's streak commenced back in January 2007. It was easily the greatest double-digit streak the league has ever seen: MJ previously held a streak of 866 consecutive games with 10+ points, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recorded 787, and The Mailman recorded at 575.

“He’s such a pass-first superstar,” remarked teammate a fellow Laker.

He focuses on playing the game of basketball. He could have shot but given the player he is and his personality as a person, he executed the unselfish play, found Rui and claimed the game.”

Scoring in double figures was usually a formality well before the final period. During James’s streak, he had attained double figures entering the fourth 1,266 times coming into the contest.

But two such games below ten points after three periods had happened just days before: He recorded nine points entering the final quarter against Dallas last week, then had six going into the fourth against Phoenix earlier in the week.

LeBron was able to extend the streak in the Phoenix game. One game later, it was over – and he celebrated regardless.

“I always just make the best play. That’s automatic, win, lose or draw,” James said. When you make the smart play, the game gods consistently returning the favor.”