LeBron James Fails to Score in First Quarter for the First Time in Playoff Career in Lakers-Warriors Game
The Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Golden State Warriors in Game 3 of the NBA playoffs on Saturday night, with Lakers star LeBron James attempting to lead his team to a 2-1 series lead over the reigning NBA champions. However, the game resulted in a rare, unfortunate milestone for James.
First Playoff Quarter without Field Goal Attempt
James failed to make a field goal attempt in the entire first quarter, marking the first time in his 275-game playoff career that this has occurred. This is a significant milestone for James, whose career is defined by milestones that have helped him put together one of the greatest resumes in the history of the game.
Although this is the first time that James has gone an entire first quarter without taking a shot in his playoff career, this has happened to him three other times in his career (regular season or playoffs).
The most recent case was on Jan. 15, 2020, while the first two times were much earlier in James’s career, with the first incident occurring on Nov. 28, 2003, and the second occurring on Nov. 15, 2006.
Lakers Trail Warriors After First Quarter
The Lakers trailed the Warriors 30-23 after the first quarter of Game 3. James was held scoreless in the quarter, missing his only shot attempt, which was a three-pointer.
Despite the setback, James finished the game with 24 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, helping the Lakers take the lead and win the game 109-103.
Although James’s failure to make a field goal attempt in the first quarter was a rare occurrence, he demonstrated his ability to lead his team to victory despite the initial setback.
James’s ability to perform well in the face of adversity is what has helped him earn his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
The Lakers’ victory in Game 3 put them in a good position to advance to the next round of the playoffs and potentially make another run at the NBA championship.
