Marcus Smart Admits Inbounding Error as Lakers Secure Narrow Win
The Los Angeles Lakers narrowly defeated the San Antonio Spurs 118-116 on Wednesday in a tightly contested game. With just 1.2 seconds left and a two-point lead, the Lakers had possession when Marcus Smart committed a critical mistake.
Crucial Turnover in Final Seconds
Smart stepped on the end line while attempting an inbounds pass to Rui Hachimura, resulting in a turnover and awarding the ball to the Spurs. Julian Champagnie was then fouled by Lakers forward Jake LaRavia with 0.2 seconds remaining.
Spurs' Last-Second Free Throws
Champagnie missed the first free throw and intentionally missed the second, hoping for a tip-in at the buzzer. However, the Lakers managed to hold on to their lead and win the game.
Smart’s Reaction
"I couldn't believe it," Smart said. "I mean, I think when I released the ball, they said I stepped over [the line]. I'm like, we see the play all the time when a guy gets the ball out quick and his leg is [hovering past the line] and he still inbounds it and he throws the ball in and there is no call."
Smart finished the game with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, going a perfect 10-for-10 on free throws. He believed that if he had made the pass successfully, the game clock would have expired before the Spurs could force a foul.
Game Impact
Smart took full responsibility for the error and vowed that the mistake "will never happen again."
Summary
Despite a costly inbounding error in the final seconds, Marcus Smart's resilience helped the Lakers maintain a slim victory over the Spurs, showing resolve and accountability.