The first player to score 40 points in an NBA debut start
In short: Kenneth Lofton Jr. achieved a statistical feat that had eluded the league for over half a century. In his very first career start, he exploded for 42 points and 14 rebounds, setting a historical benchmark for efficiency and impact on the biggest stage in basketball.
Lofton's journey to this milestone was defined by physical evolution and rapid adaptation. Originally a guard at Memorial High School in Port Arthur, Texas, he transitioned into a post player following a significant growth spurt. Such adaptability enabled him to exert significant influence for Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, marking his debut as a rookie leading their rebounding total first since Paul Millsap during 2003–04.
His breakout moment occurred on April 9, 2023, while playing for the Memphis Grizzlies. In an 115–100 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Lofton recorded a career-high 42 points and 14 rebounds in his first game as a starter. This performance made him the first player in NBA history to reach those marks in a debut start since official tracking began in the 1970–71 season.
Despite this historic outing, Lofton's path has been one of constant movement across global leagues. After being waived by Memphis and moving through short stints with the Philadelphia 76ers, Utah Jazz, and Chicago Bulls, he found significant success in China. Playing for the Shanghai Sharks during the 2024-2025 season, he averaged 25.2 points and 12.6 rebounds per game, earning the CBA Best International Player award before eventually moving to Israel's Hapoel Jerusalem in 2026.
Lofton's pedigree also includes international success; he led the United States to a gold medal at the 2021 FIBA Under-19 World Cup. In that final against France, he scored 15 of his team-high 16 points in the second half alone to secure an 83–81 victory.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Kenneth Lofton Jr.
- Also: Wikidata — Kenneth Lofton Jr. · CC0
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