Union's Cavan Sullivan, 16, sets record, channels LeBron James

Field Level Media|published: Sun 6th September, 11:38 2026

Aug 29, 2026; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Philadelphia Union midfielder Cavan Sullivan (6) controls the ball against the New York Red Bulls during the second half at Sports Illustrated Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Philadelphia Union midfielder Cavan Sullivan became the youngest player in MLS history to record a five-match goal contribution streak on Saturday.

At 16 years and 342 days old, Sullivan scored in his third consecutive MLS match on Saturday when he tallied in the 75th minute of the Union's 2-0 victory over CF Montreal. He has three goals and three assists during his past five league matches.

Sullivan's 11 goal contributions (four goals, seven assists) on the season are the most ever by a 16-year-old in MLS history, eclipsing the mark set by Freddy Adu (four goals, six assists) in 2005.

So how did Sullivan celebrate his accomplishment? Well, by mimicking the newest superstar in Philadelphia, LeBron James, with the latter's chalk toss.

"I was waiting to do that for a while," Sullivan said of the celebration. "I had Kim, our photographer, holding the chalk for multiple games. I just kept missing out on it! Tonight, great crowd, I figured it was the perfect time."

Sullivan became the youngest player to debut in North American team sports history when he made his league debut against the New England Revolution on July 17, 2024. He was 14 years and 293 days old at the time, surpassing the mark set by Adu (14 years, 306 days). Adu set it for D.C. United in 2004.

--Field Level Media

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