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LeBron James Leads Late Drama As Lakers Edge Suns In Thriller
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.
Fourth-Quarter Chaos 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.
LeBron Delivers When It Matters Most
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.
Strong Support Cast For The Lakers
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.”
Western Conference Implications
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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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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