LeBron James etched his name into the NBA record books as the Los Angeles Lakers secured a nail-biting 115-113 win over the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco. James’ 11th Christmas Day victory, a new NBA record, was sealed by Austin Reaves’ lay-up with just one second remaining, sending the Lakers’ bench into raptures.
James, who finished with 31 points, was beaming with pride after the game. “It’s always special to play on Christmas Day, and to get the win is even more sweet,” he said. “I’m just grateful to have been a part of so many special moments on this day.” The 39-year-old’s latest milestone is a testament to his enduring greatness, and his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.
The Lakers’ victory was all the more impressive given the absence of big man Anthony Davis, who twisted his left ankle just eight minutes into the game. James acknowledged the challenge of playing without Davis, saying, “It’s always difficult to play without AD, so I guess our job is even more heightened, we have to do a little bit more.” However, the Lakers’ supporting cast rose to the occasion, with Reaves finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.
The game was far from straightforward, with the Warriors staging a dramatic late comeback. Trailing 109-100 with just 1:30 remaining, Stephen Curry scored eight points in a blistering 13-4 run, including two three-pointers with 12.2 and 7.6 seconds left to level the game. However, Reaves’ game-winning lay-up sealed the win for the Lakers, sending the Warriors to a heartbreaking defeat.
Despite the loss, Curry’s performance was a Christmas classic. The Warriors’ star finished with a game-high 38 points, including eight three-pointers, tying the NBA record for a Christmas game. Curry’s shooting was a marvel to behold, and his late surge almost single-handedly won the game for the Warriors.
Christmas Day is always a special occasion in the NBA, and this year’s slate of games did not disappoint.
