Double Overtime Delight: Lakers Outlast Suns in Instant Classic at Crypto.com Arena… See more…
LOS ANGELES, CA — August 2, 2025 | 12:00 AM — The stars were out, the stakes felt sky-high, and the Los Angeles Lakers delivered a performance for the ages, outlasting the Phoenix Suns 134-129 in double overtime. It wasn’t just a game—it was a statement, a test of endurance, and a showcase of elite talent under the bright lights of Crypto.com Arena.
The victory pushes the Lakers to a 7-3 record on the season, while the Suns drop to 6-4 after falling just short in one of the most intense contests of the young NBA season.
LeBron James: 40 Years Old, Forever Legendary
Age is nothing but a number for LeBron James, who posted his second triple-double of the season, finishing with 31 points, 14 assists, and 11 rebounds in 45 grueling minutes. He controlled the offense in both overtimes, displaying his usual poise and precision.
The defining moment came in the second overtime, when LeBron buried a step-back three-pointer over Suns forward Josh Okogie with 39 seconds left, pushing the Lakers ahead by four and sealing the game’s fate.
“Games like this remind me why I still love this,” LeBron said postgame. “Big moments, big challenges—that’s what basketball’s about.”
James also surpassed 40,000 career minutes during the game, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most durable superstars the sport has ever seen.
Anthony Davis: The Defensive Anchor
While LeBron stole the spotlight on offense, Anthony Davis was the enforcer on defense. Davis tallied 28 points, 17 rebounds, and 5 blocks, including a game-saving rejection on Devin Booker with just under a minute left in the second overtime.
Davis’ rim protection and rebounding down the stretch were crucial as the Lakers clamped down after a shootout-style regulation. Despite taking a few knocks and playing through a sore shoulder, Davis showed no signs of slowing down.
“We wanted this one bad,” Davis said. “You could feel it in the huddle—we weren’t leaving without a win.”
Austin Reaves: Rising Star in the Clutch
If there was ever doubt about Austin Reaves’ ability to step up, it was silenced tonight. The third-year guard dropped 24 points, many of them in critical moments late in the fourth and both overtime periods. Reaves hit back-to-back floaters to tie the game with under two minutes left in regulation and later nailed four free throws to ice the win.
Reaves also logged a season-high 46 minutes, showcasing grit and maturity beyond his years.
“Bron and AD kept pushing me,” Reaves said. “They told me to keep looking for my shot, and I did.”
The Suns Put Up a Fight
Phoenix didn’t come to L.A. to roll over. Kevin Durant led all scorers with 34 points, while Devin Booker added 29 points and 8 assists. The Suns were up six with two minutes to go in regulation before a late Lakers rally turned the tide.
Unfortunately for Phoenix, both stars fouled out in the first overtime—Durant on a controversial offensive foul, and Booker on a loose-ball scramble. Their absence was felt as the Suns struggled to generate offense in double OT.
Backup guard Eric Gordon scored 19 off the bench but missed a crucial corner three in the final minute.
“We gave everything,” Suns coach Frank Vogel said. “But those fouls on Book and KD killed our rhythm.”
Injury Watch: D’Angelo Russell Leaves Game
A scary moment occurred in the third quarter when D’Angelo Russell rolled his ankle on a drive to the basket. He was helped off the court and did not return. Early reports suggest it’s a mild ankle sprain, and he’s listed as day-to-day.
With Russell out, Gabe Vincent filled in admirably, contributing 11 points and solid perimeter defense.
Bench Mob Delivers Key Minutes
L.A.’s depth was tested, and the reserves came through. Rui Hachimura chipped in with 11 points and 6 rebounds, while Max Christie and Jaxson Hayes provided much-needed energy during regulation.
The Lakers’ bench outscored Phoenix’s 32-24—a stat that proved decisive as both teams leaned heavily on support units in the extended game.
Coach Darvin Ham Reacts
After the game, head coach Darvin Ham couldn’t hide his satisfaction.
“This is a character win. We faced adversity, we made adjustments, and we fought for every possession. I’m proud of every guy who stepped on that court tonight.”
Ham also noted that Reaves and Davis have been playing with “underrated toughness” and praised LeBron for continuing to “set the tone on and off the court.”
Looking Ahead: Warriors Showdown Looms
The Lakers will now enjoy a well-earned day off before welcoming the Golden State Warriors to Crypto.com Arena this Sunday night. The game is expected to feature a primetime matchup between LeBron and Stephen Curry, who is also having a resurgence this season.
With momentum building, the Lakers are showing signs of the chemistry, balance, and leadership needed for a deep playoff push.
“One game at a time,” LeBron said. “But tonight—we made a statement.”
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