LeBron James reminded everyone he is still the King as the Los Angeles Lakers edged out the Philadelphia 76ers 112-108, scoring crucial points late and overshadowing Luka Doncic‘s triple-double in a thrilling finish.
The game was tied at 105-105 with 1:29 left, but James scored five straight points, including a decisive two-pointer inside the three-point line, giving the Lakers a lead they would not relinquish with 27 seconds left on the clock.
James ended with 29 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, adding 12 points in the fourth quarter, showing his leadership and proving that age has not diminished his dominance on the court.
Doncic returned after missing two games, recording 31 points, 15 rebounds, and 11 assists, yet James’ clutch performance and signature crown gesture highlighted that he remains the team’s leader in Los Angeles.
“The end of a road trip can be tiring,” James said. “I felt great and had the opportunity to assert myself offensively. I tried to lead the team when it mattered most.”
After his game-winning sequence, James ran back on defense and placed a crown atop his head, sending a clear signal to Doncic and fans alike that the King remains the definitive leader of the Lakers.
Los Angeles improved to 17-6 for the season and moved to second in the Western Conference, 5.5 wins behind the 23-1 Oklahoma City Thunder and level with the Denver Nuggets.
They now turn their attention to a clash with the San Antonio Spurs on December 10 in the NBA Cup Quarter-Final, as Doncic and James look to what is expected to be a returning Victor Wembanyama.
LeBron makes a fan’s basketball dream come true
James scored 10 straight points in the fourth quarter, overcoming arthritis and sciatica, showing the performance fans had missed, and reminding everyone of the elite player he has remained for more than two decades.
In his 23rd NBA season, James continues to combine star performance with fan engagement, signing jerseys, giving away shoes, and inspiring young players, proving that his leadership extends beyond the locker room.
This season, James has averaged 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.6 assists while shooting 46.4%, showing that even in the twilight of his career, he can still dominate crucial moments but he also caught the eye off court too.
After the win, James signed a young fan’s No. 23 jersey, a gesture shared by the NBA, which highlighted his connection to fans and the admiration he continues to inspire across generations.
“LeBron making a young fan’s day after his clutch performance in Philly,” the NBA wrote, showing that his impact extends beyond basketball and into memorable moments for supporters.
His outing was so impressive that fans at Philadelphia’s Xfinity Mobile Arena cheered James’ display, celebrating his clutch play as he proves that even at 40 years old, he can still dominate the game under pressure.
