LAS VEGAS: The Los Angeles Lakers, fueled by 30 points from ageless LeBron James, routed New Orleans 133-89 on Thursday to book a title showdown with upstarts Indiana in the inaugural NBA in-season tournament.
James, who will celebrate his 39th birthday on December 30, showcased remarkable efficiency with 30 points in less than 23 minutes—shooting 75% from the floor, including a perfect 4-for-4 from three-point range. James also contributed five rebounds and eight assists before sitting out the entire fourth quarter, as the Lakers took charge, outscoring the Pelicans 43-17 in the third period.
In the contrasting first semi-final, the Pacers pulled off a thrilling 128-119 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Tyrese Haliburton spearheaded Indiana’s triumph with 27 points and 15 assists, showcasing an impressive performance that included no turnovers. Myles Turner also contributed significantly with 26 points and 10 rebounds. The Pacers, previously underestimated in their NBA title aspirations, had eliminated the East-leading Boston Celtics in the quarter-finals and continued their impressive run against the 2021 NBA champions, the Bucks.
The tournament has served as a breakout moment for Haliburton and the Pacers, who entered the game averaging over 128 points per game. Haliburton expressed their underdog success, stating, “I think we’re shocking the world right now. Nobody expected us to be here except for the guys in the locker room.”
Despite the Bucks initially taking control with a 43-28 third-quarter lead, the Pacers fought back in a close fourth quarter. Turner’s crucial put-back layup gave Indiana a 115-112 lead with 2:19 remaining, and Haliburton’s late contributions, including a signature step-back three-pointer, sealed the 122-114 victory.
In a symbolic gesture, Haliburton pointed to his wrist in imitation of Damian Lillard’s “Dame Time” celebration, a move Lillard acknowledged and respected. —APP
