LeBron James game winner at buzzer lifts LA Lakers over Indiana Pacers
LeBron James helped the LA Lakers avoid a fourth straight loss with a dramatic last-second putback against Indiana.
27 Mar 2025
In a heart-stopping finale, LeBron James delivered a buzzer-beating tip-in with 0.1 seconds left, propelling the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling 120-119 victory over the Indiana Pacers. The win snapped the Lakers’ three-game losing streak and reignited their push for a Western Conference playoff berth.
The Pacers had staged a remarkable comeback, erasing a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter to take a 119-118 lead with just 42 seconds remaining. However, James, who had struggled to find his rhythm offensively, seized the moment, reacting quickest to a missed floater by Luka Doncic to palm the ball into the basket for the winning score.
James, 40, finished with a modest 13 points, but his impact on the game extended far beyond his scoring. He added 13 rebounds and seven assists, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his team’s success. Lakers coach J J Redick praised James’ perseverance, citing his ability to adapt and make a decisive impact despite an off-night offensively.
“LeBron’s performance was a testament to his unyielding spirit,” Redick said. “He didn’t let his slow start deter him, and his defensive efforts were instrumental in our victory. His ability to take over in the fourth quarter and secure the win is a hallmark of his greatness.”
James, characteristically, downplayed his individual heroics, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and his willingness to contribute in any way possible.
“For me, it’s about doing whatever it takes to help my teammates succeed,” James said. “I’ve always prided myself on being a well-rounded player, capable of making an impact beyond just scoring. Tonight’s performance was a great reflection of that philosophy.”
The Lakers’ victory was also fueled by strong performances from Luka Doncic, who scored 34 points, and Austin Reaves, who chipped in with 24 points. Rui Hachimura added 14 points to the Lakers’ tally.
With the win, the Lakers improved to 44-28, solidifying their fourth-place standing in the Western Conference. The top six teams in the standings will qualify automatically for the playoffs, making every victory crucial in the Lakers’ quest for postseason success.
