In a thrilling showdown at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, the Los Angeles Lakers snapped a three-game losing streak with a heart-stopping 120-119 victory over the Indiana Pacers. With seconds remaining and trailing by one point, the stage was set for a classic finish.
The final offensive possession took an unexpected turn when Luka Doncic’s floater hit the iron. In a display of clutch determination, 40-year-old LeBron James stepped up to redeem the moment by scoring his first game-winning buzzer-beater as a Laker—a career highlight that marked his eighth buzzer-beater overall.
Despite a night where his shooting faltered, missing eight of 11 field goals and having all seven of his jumpers turn into missed opportunities, James contributed 11 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists. Meanwhile, Doncic, who carried the offense through the first three quarters with 29 points, saw his impact diminish to just five points in the final quarter, and even Austin Reaves struggled in the closing stretch.
The game narrative was a mix of highs and lows, emphasized by the Pacers nearly extending their momentum with a key three-point play by Tyrese Haliburton in the final minute. However, LeBron’s critical basket secured the win and propelled the Lakers to fourth place in the Western Conference with 44 wins, while the Pacers remain in their position in the Eastern standings with 42 wins.
This dramatic finish not only highlights the unpredictable intensity of high-level basketball but also reminds us why moments of individual brilliance continue to captivate fans around the globe.
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40-year-old LeBron James beats buzzer to end Lakers' losing streak
cgtn.com
