Many had doubts, Adam Silver received quite a few criticisms, but the NBA midseason tournament seems to bring with it an energy we're not used to seeing at this stage of the season in the best league in the world. Tonight (Thursday through Friday), we got the semifinals as the L.A. Lakers and Indiana Pacers advanced to the finals that will be held on the night between Saturday and Sunday. The team from the City of Angels easily defeated New Orleans as the Pacers managed to beat Milwaukee, considered one of the top contenders to win this year's championship.
The person who, unsurprisingly, or some might say did, stole the show in the Lakers' win was LeBron James. Approaching age 39, "The King" continues to look amazing as it swept its teammates to 89:133 over New Orleans. LeBron became the first player in history to score at least 30 points, with 5 rebounds and assists in 23 minutes or less, finished the game with 8 assists and a plus-minus index of plus-36.
Add it to the books -- LeBron is the first player in NBA history with 30+ points, 5+ assists, & 5+ rebounds in under 23 minutes 👑 pic.twitter.com/2mLGtzEqt5
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) December 8, 2023
"My coach reminded me that I'd never played in a Final Four before," LeBron said after the game, "I've been a part of a tournament like this before, but never with NBA players on an NBA court. It's a completely different experience for me. 'Cool' pitches don't bother me. This tournament is good for us so far, but we need to 'finish our breakfast on Saturday.'" LeBron's coach Darvin Ham was asked after the game if his apprentice deserved to win MVP this year and he didn't think twice: "No question at all. With the way he plays, with the energy with which he plays? As far as I'm concerned, it's not up for debate."
Tyrese Haliburton stepback three.
CLUTCH. pic.twitter.com/2b8TAw7t1i
— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) December 8, 2023
In the second game of the night, Indiana beat Milwaukee, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. The one who stole the show again like in the quarterfinals was Tyrese Haliburton en route to a 119-128 victory. Haliburton excelled with 27 points along with 15 assists and 7 rebounds without a single loss.
Less than a minute into the finale, Haliburton closed things out with a big three-pointer and celebrated with a glimpse of his "clock," obviously taunting rival Lillard. "I know what time it is. This is our time. We are amazing the world and we intend to continue to do so," the rising star said after the match.
At the press conference, Lillard addressed Halliburton's sting, saying, "When it's time for you to shine, you have to be careful. Be humble. You don't know when things will turn around. I can't be upset that someone else is imitating my celebration, it's a sign of honor to me."
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