What happened in the OKC Thunder vs LA Lakers game? Final score, LeBron's night of history, and more
The OKC Thunder spoiled LeBron James' historic night on Tuesday when they defeated the LA Lakers 133-130. James broke the NBA's all-time scoring record in the third quarter, but the Thunder prevailed in the end.
The Thunder increased their lead to 1.5 games over the Lakers in the Western Conference standings. They were led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had 30 points and eight assists. He continues to show why he was named an All-Star this season.
Rookies Jalen and Jaylin Williams also had huge games for the Thunder. Jalen, who defended LeBron James during the game, had 25 points, seven rebounds, two assists and four steals. Jaylin, who started at center against Anthony Davis, finished with 14 points, seven rebounds and seven assists.
Meanwhile, James finished his record-breaking night with 38 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Anthony Davis was a non-factor, scoring just 13 points in 31 minutes. Russell Westbrook had 27 points, four rebounds and eight assists off the bench.
It was a disappointing night from the team's perspective because of how close the teams are in the Western Conference standings. However, it was an amazing night for James as he broke a record many thought would remain forever.
"The King" managed to accomplish this in front of his family, friends, teammates, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who held the record for almost four decades.
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LeBron James breaks scoring record in the third quarter
Entering Tuesday's game, LeBron James needed 36 points to break Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's scoring record. James started off cold in the early minutes of the game, but slowly found his groove. He finished the first half strongly with 20 points.
"The King" remained hot in the third quarter, scoring 16 points to become the NBA's all-time leading scorer with 38,388 points. He did it with less than 10 seconds left in the third quarter using his patented fadeaway jumper over two defenders.
The game was temporarily paused to allow James to soak in and celebrate the moment with his family. NBA commissioner Adam Silver congratulated him on center court, while Abdul-Jabbar presented him with the ball that scored the record-breaking basket.
Several video tributes and messages were also shown for the rest of the night, including from his mother Gloria, his wife Savannah and three children, Bronny, Bryce and Zhuri. It was an emotional night for James, who was reduced to tears after making history.
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