The Los Angeles Lakers edged out the Indiana Pacers 120-119 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday, snapping their three-game losing streak thanks to a spectacular buzzer-beater by LeBron James.
With seconds left on the clock and the Lakers trailing by one, James took control. Driving past defenders, he launched a mid-range jumper that found nothing but net as the buzzer sounded. The arena erupted as teammates swarmed James, celebrating his first game-winning buzzer-beater as a Laker and the eighth of his illustrious career.
James, who registered a double-double with 28 points and 12 rebounds, proved once again why he’s considered one of the greatest in the game. While he struggled from beyond the arc, missing all his three-point attempts, his clutch performance in the final moments overshadowed earlier misses.
“It’s all about trusting the work you’ve put in,” James said post-game. “My shots weren’t falling early, but I knew I had to come through for my team when it mattered most.”
Teammate Anthony Davis contributed 25 points and 10 rebounds, providing a strong inside presence throughout the game. Despite a tough shooting night, Austin Reaves added crucial defensive plays in the fourth quarter to keep the Lakers within reach.
On the Pacers’ side, Tyrese Haliburton was impressive, scoring 30 points and dishing out eight assists. His three-point play in the final minute seemed to seal the game for Indiana, but the Pacers couldn’t hold off James’ last-second heroics.
The victory propels the Lakers back to fourth place in the Western Conference standings. “This win was essential for us,” Lakers coach Frank Vogel stated. “We needed to regain our momentum, and tonight the team showed resilience and heart.”
The Pacers, while disappointed, remain optimistic. “We played hard, but sometimes the ball doesn’t bounce your way,” Haliburton reflected. “We’ll learn from this and come back stronger.”
