Shine in Overtime Victory Against the Grizzlies Image source BBC Sports
In the waning moments of regulation, James executed a clutch layup with a mere 0.8 seconds remaining on the clock. This pivotal play helped fuel the Lakers’ tenacity and fortitude, leading to a hard-fought 117-111 victory. As the game wore on, Lebron James continued to shine, delivering a critical basket in the latter stages of overtime. Thanks to his unwavering determination and skillful prowess, the Lakers now find themselves on the cusp of advancing to the second round.
On Monday night, the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles bore witness to an intense and thrilling battle between the Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 4 of their fiercely contested first-round playoff series. With both teams leaving it all on the court, the game was a physical affair, with every possession fiercely contested.
Despite the regulation period coming to a close, neither team had been able to gain a decisive advantage. However, LeBron James‘ driving layup with just 0.8 seconds left on the clock tied the game, forcing it into overtime. The Grizzlies’ Desmond Bane had given his team a brief lead with a layup with just 6.7 seconds left, but James was not to be outdone.
In overtime, James once again rose to the occasion, driving to the basket for a crucial layup that secured a hard-fought 117-111 victory for the Lakers. With the sellout crowd of 18,997 erupting in celebration, James let out a scream and a flex, epitomizing the grit and determination that had brought his team to the brink of the second round.
James’ contribution was nothing short of heroic, as he secured 20 rebounds for the first time in his illustrious career. He became the first Laker to achieve a 20-point, 20-rebound game in the playoffs since Shaquille O’Neal in 2004.
In addition to his impressive rebounding performance, James also provided seven assists and two blocked shots, committing just one turnover in a record-breaking 270th playoff game. Although he struggled from beyond the arc, going only 1 for 7 from 3-point range, James’ all-around performance was a testament to his skill and determination.
With Game 5 set to take place on Wednesday at FedEx Forum in Memphis, the Lakers will look to build on their momentum and secure their place in the second round. If necessary, Game 6 will take place on Friday night at the Crypto.com Arena.
LeBron James described how he had to dig deep and persevere in order to secure a win in Game 4. He acknowledged that this was not the time to rest and put all his focus on the game, and he would have plenty of time to rest later.
When asked if he surprised himself, James admitted that he did when his teammates told him he had achieved 20 points and 20 rebounds, something he had never done before in his career.
Lebron James also made two crucial charges on Ja Morant in the fourth quarter, during a time when the Lakers appeared to struggle at times. However, D’Angelo Russell’s three consecutive 3-pointers gave the Lakers a brief lead, and Austin Reaves added 23 points while Russell scored 17 points to support James’ efforts.
Jarred Vanderbilt had 15 points, 10 of which were in the first quarter, while Anthony Davis contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds, and Dennis Schroder put on relentless defensive pressure on Morant in a reserve role.
Lakers coach Darvin Ham praised Russell’s performance and the contributions of other players who stepped up to help the team win. The Lakers’ win was a team effort, with James’ closing performance, Russell’s scoring ability, and other players’ contributions on both sides of the ball.
Ham credited Russell’s offensive contribution as the key factor that allowed the Lakers to close the gap and ultimately walk away with the win. Without Russell’s play, Ham believed that the Lakers would not have been able to secure the victory.
In Game 4 of the first-round playoff series between the Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies, the two teams engaged in a fiercely contested battle. The Lakers eventually emerged victorious with a hard-fought 117-111 win in overtime, taking a 3-1 lead in the series.
LeBron James was instrumental in the Lakers’ triumph, recording 22 points, 20 rebounds, seven assists, and two blocked shots in a frenzied 45 minutes of play.
Lebron James took two charges on Ja Morant and made a driving layup to send the game into overtime, where he scored the game-winning basket.
The Lakers also received valuable contributions from Austin Reaves, who led the team with 23 points, and D’Angelo Russell, who chipped in with 17 points, including three consecutive 3-pointers.
Desmond Bane led the Grizzlies with 36 points, while Morant scored 19 points and Jaren Jackson Jr. added 14 points and 14 rebounds.
