Los Angeles was able to deliver a win on LeBron James‘ 36th birthday, earning a win over the Spurs and improving to 3-2 on the NBA season.
With all of the miles he has put on his body, he is still playing at an extremely high level. He was named the #1 Player in the NBA again by both ESPN and SLAM Magazine leading into the season—that says a lot about this dedication to himself and being available to lead his team. LBJ’s teammates are following his lead and they look ready to defend their Championship.
Spurs Accomplish Milestone in Loss
While the Spurs lost 121-107, the franchise did have a bright spot. Becky Hammon, a lead assistant in San Antonio, became the first female head coach last night to lead an NBA team during the regular season after she took over for Gregg Popovich, who was ejected in the first half. Hammon made history and could possibly be on her way to a full-time head coach in the NBA down the road, possibly sooner than later. Hammon was focused on the task at hand and not the hoopla of being the first female to accomplish the feat.
“I try not to think of the huge picture and huge aspect of it because it can be overwhelming,” Hammon said. “I really have had no time to reflect. I have not had time to look at my phone. So, I don’t know what’s going on outside the AT&T Center.”
James gave his congratulations to Becky Hammon post-game as well.
“Obviously she’s been paying her dues over the last few years and Coach Pop has given her the opportunity. … It’s a beautiful thing just to hear her barking out calls, barking out sets. She’s very passionate about the game. Congrats to her and congrats for our league.”
More From The Los Angeles Lakers
- James led the way for the Lakers on his 36th birthday. He scored 26 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and 8 assists. He also became the first player to score in double digits in 1,000 consecutive games. Yet another record for LeBron James.
- Anthony Davis came up big last night. He scored 20 points on 9 of 15 shooting and also grabbed 8 rebounds.
- Dennis Schroder is finding his way so far with the Lakers. He scored 21 points on 9 of 15 shooting, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists.
- Wesley Matthews was PERFECT from the field and three-point range. He took all three-pointers in last night’s contest. He went 6 for 6 from the three-point line and finished with 18 points.
The Lakers’ next game is the back end of a back-to-back against the Spurs in San Antonio. The game is on January 1st at 8 pm Eastern on NBA TV.
