Before converting the game-winning tip-in at the final buzzer, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James endured a rough start against the Indiana Pacers.
The 21-time NBA All-Star went 0-for-5 from the field in the first half, making it the first time James didn’t make a single shot in the first two quarters of a game since 2010 when he was still with the Miami Heat, per StatMamba. James had two points during that period after knocking down two free throws.
James redeemed himself after the halftime break by scoring 11 points. The King finished with 13 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists on 4-for-12 shooting from the field, including the game-winning putback.
The win ended a three-game losing streak for the Los Angeles Lakers and halted a five-game unbeaten run for the Indiana Pacers.
Los Angeles Lakers News: LeBron James draws praise after clutch shot vs. Indiana Pacers
LeBron James’ tip-in was his eighth career buzzer-beater, putting him level with the late Kobe Bryant and Joe Johnson. Michael Jordan is the only player who has more (nine).
“I really couldn’t really have too much emotion because I was trying to see if I got the ball off in time, to be honest,” James said via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “But after they showed the replay on it, it was definitely gratifying.”
“Just shows you what he’s about,” Austin Reaves said about James. “He’s a winner at heart. That’s really it.”
