SPORTS

Lakers Rally In Overtime To Take 3-0 Lead

PUBLISHED Apr 24, 2026, 6:16 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 4

Center 100%

Sources: 4

Houston — The Los Angeles Lakers rallied to defeat the Houston Rockets 112-108 in overtime on Friday night, erasing a six-point deficit in the final 30 seconds to force extra time. LeBron James scored 29 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and provided six assists, and he hit the tying three-pointer with 13 seconds remaining to send the game to overtime. Los Angeles now holds a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven first-round series and can close out the matchup in Game 4 on Sunday night in Houston. Coach JJ Redick stressed the need to remain desperate; reports noted the Rockets were missing a key player, and the result shifts pressure to Houston to make tactical adjustments before the next game.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Lakers win first two home games to take a 2-0 series lead in the first round.
Series shifts to Houston for Game 3 on Friday night.
Lakers rally from a six-point deficit with under 30 seconds left to force overtime.
Lakers win Game 3, 112-108 in overtime; LeBron James records 29 points, 13 rebounds and six assists.
Game 4 scheduled Sunday night in Houston with Lakers leading the series 3-0.

News Intelligence

If you're a Lakers fan, this is a thrilling moment. The team's comeback shows resilience and a fighting spirit. It's a reminder that in sports, and life, it's never over until it's over. For Game 4, check your local listings and set a reminder to cheer on the Lakers.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

The Los Angeles Lakers benefited by taking a commanding 3-0 series lead, boosting team morale, increasing their chances to advance in the playoffs, and improving commercial and postseason opportunities for the franchise and its players.

Who Impacted

The Houston Rockets suffered a significant setback after the overtime loss, confronting potential elimination, increased scrutiny over tactical adjustments, and reduced margin for error especially given the reported absence of key personnel.

Media Bias