MANILA, Philippines — The Los Angeles Lakers have clinched a spot in the playoffs after fending off the Golden State Warriors, 103-100, in the play-in tournament at the Staples Center on Wednesday (Thursday, Manila time).
The Lakers fought back from a 13-point deficit when their offense picked up steam in the third and fourth salvos to come away with the win.
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After trailing for the first three quarters, the Lakers took their first lead early in the fourth, 81-79.
LeBron James converted on a long three-pointer with about a minute left in the game to seal the game after a back-and-forth final salvo.
The Lakers thus set up a first round playoff clash with second seed Phoenix Suns.
Meanwhile, the Warriors have another chance to clinch a playoff spot in a winner-take-all rubber match with the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday (Saturday in Manila).