Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James thought he made a game-tying three-pointer late Saturday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Instead, James and his size 15 shoes were just a centimeter off.
James initially quieted the capacity crowd at Target Center in Minneapolis when he connected on a long-range shot with 3.1 seconds left. It appeared as though everyone in the building, save for the referees, thought James had just made a three to tie the game at 107.
However, James’ shot was called a two-pointer. Referees ruled that James’ foot was just barely on the line. You be the judge.
The screenshot of LeBron’s foot outside the line serves no purpose because it doesn’t show when the ball left his hands. Here’s a more accurate replay for you to decide. It’s close for sure. pic.twitter.com/tX38xTvQNi
— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) December 31, 2023
James clearly disagreed with the call. The Lakers star was seen vehemently arguing with the referees about the ever-so-close replay.
It looked like LeBron’s toe was touching the line as he jumped to take the 3. #Lakers had other chances. #Timberwolves made more plays to win. #NBA pic.twitter.com/KcGRQJWeEE
— Faisal Hassan (@Faazzla) December 31, 2023
The scene drew parallels to another controversial referee moment that had James fuming from last season.
Given that the referees ruled the shot a two-pointer on the floor, they would have needed clear and conclusive evidence to overturn the call.
The Lakers got "clear and conclusived" in Minnesota pic.twitter.com/g6nCGmcymS
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) December 31, 2023
James did get one final crack to force overtime after Anthony Edwards split a pair of free throws. But the Lakers frontman wasn’t even able to get a shot off before time expired.
WOLVES WIN WOLVES WIN ‼#RaisedByWolves 108#LakeShow 106 pic.twitter.com/EGUmHD7SGS
— Bally Sports North (@BallySportsNOR) December 31, 2023
James finished with 26 points and six assists Saturday in the Lakers’ 108-106 loss to the Timberwolves.
