Dec 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) react during an altercation that resulted in a technical for Brooks during the second half of a game at at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images
LeBron James once again proved why age is just a number, delivering a vintage performance as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Phoenix Suns 116-114 in a tense NBA showdown on Sunday.
James finished with 26 points and found himself at the centre of a fiery late-game moment with Suns guard Dillon Brooks as the contest reached boiling point in Phoenix.
The Lakers appeared to be cruising after opening up a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter, but the Suns mounted a fierce comeback. With just 12 seconds remaining, Brooks drained a three-pointer to put Phoenix one point ahead and ignite the home crowd.
Moments later, chaos erupted. Brooks bumped into James, drawing his second technical foul of the night and earning an immediate ejection. While the 40-year-old James missed the ensuing technical free throw, the drama was far from over.
With three seconds left on the clock, James was fouled by Devin Booker on a three-point attempt. He calmly stepped to the line and converted two of his three free throws to push the Lakers back in front.
“It’s the NBA, no boys allowed,” James said after the game. “We’re out there competing and we were able to get the last laugh.”
James also made crucial contributions beyond scoring, recording four assists, three rebounds, and a vital late block on Grayson Allen’s potential game-winning three-pointer.
Luka Dončić led all scorers for the Lakers with 29 points, adding six assists and three rebounds in another impressive showing. Deandre Ayton chipped in with 20 points to help keep Los Angeles in control for much of the night.
Despite the Suns’ spirited rally, the Lakers’ physicality and composure ultimately carried them over the line.
“We got behind the eight ball a lot in the fourth quarter,” James admitted. “But for the majority of the game, our physicality was good.”
The win keeps the Lakers perched at the top of the Western Conference Pacific Division, reinforcing their status as early-season contenders. The Suns remain close behind in second place, setting the stage for what could become a compelling rivalry as the season progresses.
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