No team in NBA history has blown a 3-0 lead, and LeBron James ensured the Los Angeles Lakers wouldn’t be the first. On Friday, James led the Lakers to a series-clinching 98-78 victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 6 of their first-round matchup, scoring 28 points, along with seven rebounds and eight assists.

In the locker room post-game, James' teammates celebrated his performance with playful goat noises instead of traditional applause. Lakers coach JJ Redick remarked, "It speaks to his greatness. To me, he's had the greatest career of any NBA player." Redick added, "For him to do it again and answer the bell again, it's really baffling in some ways."

The Lakers, despite the absence of Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, jumped to a 3-0 lead against the heavily favored Rockets, largely due to James’ heroics in Game 3, where his late 3-pointer forced overtime and sparked a dramatic comeback.

Although the Lakers faced challenges in Games 4 and 5, James made sure they wouldn’t have to return to Los Angeles for a Game 7. He played a pivotal role early in Game 6, assisting on five of the Lakers' first seven baskets, including a crucial 3-pointer to Luke Kennard that gave them a lead they maintained.

James averaged 23.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 8.3 assists, and 1.3 steals throughout the series, leading all players in scoring and assists. At 41 years and 122 days, he became the oldest player in NBA history to lead a playoff series in points, adding yet another milestone to his illustrious career.

This victory marks the first time the Lakers have advanced past the first round since 2023. They will face the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round, with Game 1 set for Tuesday in OKC.

Reflecting on the win, James stated, "It's pretty cool to have the opportunity to lead a team, at 41 years old, into the playoffs and for us to be able to win it." He emphasized the importance of appreciating each playoff moment as he continues his storied career.