LeBron James' clutch 3 forces OT as Lakers rally to beat Rockets in a thriller

LeBron James delivered in crunch time as the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a dramatic 112-108 overtime win against the Houston Rockets on Friday night, taking a commanding 3-0 lead in their Western Conference first-round series. James finished with 29 points and 13 rebounds, but it was his clutch game-tying three-pointer with just 13 seconds left in regulation that changed everything. Trailing by six points with under 30 seconds remaining, the Lakers mounted a stunning late rally to force overtime.


In the extra period, Marcus Smart stepped up in a big way, scoring key points—including a three-pointer early in overtime—to help Los Angeles seize control. He calmly knocked down crucial free throws in the final minute to keep Houston at bay. Smart ended the night with 21 points and 10 assists, while Rui Hachimura added 22 points.


A magical moment unfolded on the court as Bronny James sank a three-pointer and then capped it with a smooth reverse layup off a pass from his father, LeBron James.


Houston, playing without Kevin Durant due to injury, still had chances to close the game. After forcing consecutive turnovers from James, they built a 101-95 lead late in the fourth quarter. Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points and 16 rebounds, while Amen Thompson contributed 26 points and 11 rebounds.


The Lakers had led by as many as 15 earlier, but found themselves trailing before Smart’s three free throws cut the deficit. Moments later, James stole the ball and drilled the tying shot to send the game into overtime. Houston had one last chance in regulation, but Sengun’s attempt missed. James nearly won it at the buzzer, but his shot fell short.

With momentum fully on their side, the Lakers now head to Houston looking to complete a series sweep.