With just 3.9 seconds left on the clock, the Los Angeles Lakers held onto a slim 116‑114 lead over the Phoenix Suns.
LeBron James, 40 years old, converted the final two free throws after a foul on a 3‑point attempt.
The Lakers had already rebounded from a 20‑point fourth‑quarter deficit that had put them in a precarious position.
The game, played in Phoenix, saw a dramatic comeback that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
James’s clutch performance sealed the victory for the home team.
Phoenix trailed 99‑79 with 7:48 remaining, a 20‑point gap that seemed insurmountable.
The Suns managed to cut the margin to 99‑88 before the Lakers answered with a surge.
The Lakers’ offense found rhythm in the third quarter, pushing the score to 95‑77 in their favor.
The Suns’ defense tightened, but the Lakers kept the momentum.
The game remained highly competitive until the final minutes.
With 12.2 seconds left, Dillon Brooks hit a 3‑pointer over LeBron James, giving Phoenix a 114‑113 lead.
The shot sparked a technical foul on James after a contact incident, resulting in a second technical and an ejection for Brooks.
The technical foul granted the Lakers a free throw, but James missed it, keeping the score close.
The Suns then forced a foul on James, setting up the decisive free‑throw situation.
This sequence set the stage for the closing play.
On the next possession, LeBron James was fouled by Devin Booker on a 3‑point attempt with 3.9 seconds left.
James missed the first free throw, but the subsequent two made him the only scorer in the final 3.9 seconds.
The Lakers took a 115‑114 lead with the final free throw, and the Suns were unable to respond in the remaining time.
The two successful shots were the difference between victory and defeat.
James’s accuracy in pressure situations was crucial.
Luka Doncic finished with 29 points, a career‑high for the Lakers.
His shooting was 7 of 25 from the field, including 2 of 14 from beyond the arc.
Despite the low shooting percentage, Doncic contributed consistently across all areas.
He was a key offensive weapon during the Lakers’ comeback.
His performance helped offset the Suns’ strong defense.
Jaxson Hayes delivered a powerful dunk over Phoenix’s Oso Ighodaro, giving the Lakers a 79‑77 lead with 2:24 left in the third quarter.
The dunk was part of a 24‑0 run that spanned eight minutes across the third and fourth quarters.
The run extended the Lakers’ advantage to 95‑77 at one point.
Hayes’ highlight reel play energized the Lakers’ bench.
The run proved pivotal in the game’s outcome.
Deandre Ayton, playing against his former team, posted 20 points and 13 rebounds for the Lakers.
Ayton had spent his first five NBA seasons in Phoenix after being selected No. 1 overall in 2018.
His double‑double was a strong statement in the matchup.
Ayton’s presence in the paint helped the Lakers maintain control.
He also contributed defensively throughout the game.
Booker led the Suns with 27 points, returning to the lineup after missing three games with a groin injury.
The four‑time All‑Star made 13 of 16 free throws, showcasing his efficiency from the line.
Booker’s scoring was vital for Phoenix’s attempt to stay in the game.
Despite his efforts, the Suns fell short.
Booker’s return added excitement for the Suns’ fans.
The Suns have lost six of their last nine games, a streak that underscores their recent struggles.
Their record reflects a team in transition, dealing with injuries and inconsistent play.
Phoenix’s recent performance has left fans anxious about the future.
The loss to the Lakers continues that trend.
The Suns will need to regroup ahead of their next matchup.
The final score of 116‑114 was a testament to the Lakers’ resilience.
Overcoming a 20‑point deficit in the fourth quarter showcased the team’s determination.
The game’s outcome hinged on LeBron James’s free‑throw accuracy.
The victory keeps the Lakers in contention for the playoffs.
It also provides momentum heading into the next series.
The Lakers will face Utah on Thursday night in their next game.
The Suns will host Golden State on Thursday as well.
Both teams have important games to play in the coming week.
Fans can expect another competitive matchup.
The outcomes will influence the standings.
Key Takeaways
- LeBron James’s final two free throws secured the 116‑114 win.
- Luka Doncic scored a career‑high 29 points.
- Deandre Ayton matched a double‑double with 20 points and 13 rebounds.
Phoenix’s comeback attempt fell just short, as the Lakers’ late‑game heroics proved decisive.
The game highlighted the importance of clutch shooting and defensive resilience.
Fans witnessed a dramatic finish that will be remembered for its intensity.
The Lakers’ victory demonstrates their capacity to win tight games.
While the Suns struggled to close out the game, their offensive efforts were still notable.
The team’s ability to fight back from a 20‑point deficit shows potential.
However, consistency remains a challenge.
The Lakers’ performance suggests they are a formidable opponent moving forward.
The Suns must address their defensive lapses.
In summary, the Lakers edged the Suns in a high‑stakes battle, with LeBron James delivering under pressure.
The game’s narrative was defined by a dramatic comeback and a narrow margin of victory.
Both teams will look to refine their strategies in the coming weeks.
The result adds excitement to the NBA season and sets the stage for future contests.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
