LeBron James Stunned by Dramatic Half-Court Buzzer Beater in Shocking Lakers Loss

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers were left in disbelief Thursday night after an astonishing finish saw them fall to the Chicago Bulls, 119-117. A dramatic half-court buzzer-beater by Bulls’ standout Josh Giddey sealed the Lakers’ eighth loss in their last twelve games, leaving James visibly stunned on the court.

LeBron James of the Lakers reacting during a game.

The Lakers, who had maintained a five-point advantage (115-110) with only 12.6 seconds remaining, suffered a sudden collapse. A costly turnover by James himself, coupled with a miscommunication in the team’s defense, set the stage for Giddey’s spectacular shot. The Australian guard launched the decisive half-court three-pointer directly over James, instantly silencing the Lakers’ fans.

A basketball player shoots a game-winning three-pointer over two defenders.

Reflecting on the heart-wrenching defeat, James readily accepted responsibility. “We put ourselves in position to win,” he told reporters post-game. “We gave up a lot of threes in the fourth quarter but still put ourselves in position to win. Horrible turnover by myself and a miscommunication the play before that.”

James also praised teammate Austin Reaves for his effort to rescue the game, acknowledging, “AR tried to save us—tip your hats.”

This dramatic finish starkly contrasted the Lakers’ previous game, where James himself secured victory against the Indiana Pacers with a last-second tip-in. The emotional rollercoaster of this week’s games underscores the unpredictability and intensity that James continues to navigate at 40 years old.

Aside from on-court drama, James has also been managing controversy off the court. Earlier in the week, he made headlines during an hour-long interview on The Pat McAfee Show, addressing a recent courtside confrontation with ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith. The conflict arose from Smith’s remarks about James’ son, Bronny, suggesting that the younger James would be playing in the NBA’s G League if not for his father’s influence.

James labeled Smith’s comments as personal, leading to an intense face-to-face exchange during a Lakers game against the New York Knicks. Smith subsequently responded via his YouTube show, stating emphatically that he “would’ve swung” on James if physically confronted, while also clarifying that the incident was purely verbal and never escalated.

Comparison of LeBron James' and Michael Jordan's NBA statistics.

“I knew he wasn’t going to do anything like that. There was no fear in my mind,” Smith emphasized, referencing the incident. James later mocked Smith by posting a video of the broadcaster sparring, fueling ongoing public interest in the feud.

Between dramatic finishes and heated off-court exchanges, James’ week has undoubtedly been eventful. However, Thursday’s painful loss particularly stung, clearly reflected in James’ stunned reaction. For the Lakers, who are fighting for playoff positioning, every defeat now carries increased significance.

As James continues to navigate controversies both on and off the court, his response in the coming games will be closely watched. Despite setbacks, his competitive spirit and resilience remain undeniable, promising even more captivating drama as the NBA season races toward its climax.