{"id":265621,"date":"2026-04-25T07:46:10","date_gmt":"2026-04-25T07:46:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/265621\/"},"modified":"2026-04-25T07:46:10","modified_gmt":"2026-04-25T07:46:10","slug":"houston-rockets-game-3-collapse-vs-la-lakers-not-about-youth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/265621\/","title":{"rendered":"Houston Rockets Game 3 collapse vs. LA Lakers not about youth"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img alt=\"The Lakers'\u00a0LeBron James pokes the ball away from the Rockets' Reed Sheppard, setting up his own tying 3-pointer in a disastrous stretch to end regulation for Houston in Friday's overtime loss.\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-gray200 mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Lakers&#8217;\u00a0LeBron James pokes the ball away from the Rockets&#8217; Reed Sheppard, setting up his own tying 3-pointer in a disastrous stretch to end regulation for Houston in Friday&#8217;s overtime loss.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<\/p>\n<p>In what seems like the coaching equivalent of pouring boiling wine on an open wound, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/rockets\/\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Houston Rockets<\/a> coach Ime Udoka had his players rewatch the fourth-quarter collapse that all but ended their season \u2014 immediately after it happened.<\/p>\n<p>Even without Kevin Durant, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/rockets\/article\/kevin-durant-lakers-series-injury-update-22225484.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">who didn\u2019t play with an ankle sprain<\/a>, the Rockets led by six points and had the ball with 30 seconds left in Friday&#8217;s Game 3 against the Los Angeles Lakers. Stingy second-half defense and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/rockets\/article\/alperen-sengun-game-3-lakers-collapse-22223915.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">a dominant\u00a0bounce-back performance from Alperen \u015eeng\u00fcn<\/a> at Toyota Center had Houston on the verge of narrowing the series to 2-1 in the Lakers&#8217; favor, setting up a crucial Game 4 on Sunday.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, the remainder of this series will almost certainly be a formality.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Turnovers by Jabari Smith Jr. and Reed Sheppard each led to three Los Angeles points, tying the game. The Rockets eventually <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/rockets\/article\/houston-la-lakers-game-3-score-updates-22223912.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">lost 112-108 in overtime<\/a> and face a 3-0 series deficit. No team in NBA history has ever come back from such a deficit, with only four of 159 forcing Game 7.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHorrendous mistakes,\u201d Udoka said of the turnovers. \u201cI don\u2019t know if you want to say youth or scared of the moment, whatever the case.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cObviously you gotta watch it and you gotta learn from it,\u201d Sheppard said. \u201cIt sucks having to watch and re-run and go through it and talk about it, but you know that\u2019s part of it \u2014 part of getting over (it) and getting better.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"MM_onlineOnly\" title=\"CCI Online Only\">&#8216;ALL-TIME CHOKE JOB&#8217;: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houstonchronicle.com\/sports\/rockets\/article\/houston-la-lakers-game-3-reaction-collapse-22225367.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">Reaction to Rockets&#8217; collapse, loss in Game 3<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Smith&#8217;s mistake came first. The forward grabbed the rebound and, with no immediate defender stopping him, began dribbling up the court before Lakers guard Marcus Smart stunted towards him. Smart told reporters he made the move to see what Smith would do \u2014 the Rockets&#8217; forward picked his dribble up and was \u201cin no man\u2019s land.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Smith tried to lob a pass over Smart, but the veteran picked it off.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI gotta dribble the ball up the floor,\u201d Smith Jr. said. He called his turnover \u201cvery careless\u201d and said it \u201cjust can\u2019t happen.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Houston compounded the error when Jae\u2019Sean Tate fouled Smart as he rose for a 3-pointer. He made all three of his foul shots to trim the deficit to three.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The Rockets inbounded the ball to Sheppard and the Lakers, smartly, did not foul. Sheppard initially evaded LeBron James and continued dribbling up court. Alperen \u015eeng\u00fcn waited just across halfcourt and was wide-open after his defender, Rui Hachimura, ran forward to try and double Sheppard.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>The 21-year-old guard and Udoka both said the right decision would have been to make the simple pass to \u015eeng\u00fcn. But Sheppard tried to split the double team. James poked the ball loose and hit a game-tying 3-pointer on the ensuing possession.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) lines up against Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"eager\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) lines up against Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) dunks past Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) dunks past Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) looks towards the basket against Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) looks towards the basket against Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) drives to the basket around Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) drives to the basket around Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) drives to the basket around Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) drives to the basket around Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) gets ready for the opening jump of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) gets ready for the opening jump of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) goes after a loose ball against Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) goes after a loose ball against Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) reacts after dunking the ball abasing Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (30) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) reacts after dunking the ball abasing Houston Rockets center Clint Capela (30) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) shoots over Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) shoots over Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) spins in the paint against Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) spins in the paint against Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) shoots past Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) shoots past Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) makes his case with referee Ray Acosta (54) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) makes his case with referee Ray Acosta (54) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot in the paint over Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot in the paint over Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot in the paint over Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot in the paint over Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) battles against Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) battles against Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) strips Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie (20) of the ball alongside Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) strips Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie (20) of the ball alongside Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) makes a pass during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) makes a pass during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) is seen at half court during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) is seen at half court during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) reacts as Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes, lower right, and guard Marcus Smart motion for a turnover by Sengun during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) reacts as Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes, lower right, and guard Marcus Smart motion for a turnover by Sengun during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) calls timeout during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) calls timeout during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) is seen after tying the game with a 3-pointer late in the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) is seen after tying the game with a 3-pointer late in the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) is seen during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) is seen during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) dunks the ball ahead of Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) dunks the ball ahead of Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) reacts toward Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) after making a basket during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) reacts toward Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) after making a basket during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) reacts toward Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) after making a basket during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) reacts toward Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) after making a basket during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots under pressure during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots under pressure during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dunks the ball during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dunks the ball during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts after making a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) knocks the ball away from Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) is double teamed by Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) and guard Bronny James Jr. (9) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) is double teamed by Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) and guard Bronny James Jr. (9) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) has his shot blocked by Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) as he shoots during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) has his shot blocked by Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) as he shoots during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Steven Adams (12) is on the sidelines during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Steven Adams (12) is on the sidelines during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) drives to the basket against Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) drives to the basket against Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) makes his case with referee Ray Acosta (54) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) makes his case with referee Ray Acosta (54) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) goes after a loose ball against Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) goes after a loose ball against Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) shoots past Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) shoots past Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) reacts as Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) motions for a turnover by Sengun during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) reacts as Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) motions for a turnover by Sengun during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) dunks he ball in front of Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) dunks he ball in front of Houston Rockets forward Dorian Finney-Smith (2) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Texans Hall of Fame Andre Johnson, second from left left, is seen alongside wide receiver Tank Dell, center, and quarterback C.J. Stroud during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans Hall of Fame Andre Johnson, second from left left, is seen alongside wide receiver Tank Dell, center, and quarterback C.J. Stroud during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jae'Sean Tate (8) goes after a loose ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James Jr. (9) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jae&#8217;Sean Tate (8) goes after a loose ball against Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James Jr. (9) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots against Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots against Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) pressures an inbounds pass by Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) pressures an inbounds pass by Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) makes a pass during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) makes a pass during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots over Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James Jr. (9) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) shoots over Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James Jr. (9) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) leaves the court after the team\u2019s loss to Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) leaves the court after the team\u2019s loss to Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) goes up for a layup over Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) goes up for a layup over Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) works to keep the ball inbounds against Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) works to keep the ball inbounds against Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) reacts to getting fouled by Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) reacts to getting fouled by Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) reacts after making a basket in overtime during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) reacts after making a basket in overtime during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) in overtime during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) in overtime during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) chase after a loose ball during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) chase after a loose ball during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) looks for a teammate to pass to against Houston Rockets defense during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) looks for a teammate to pass to against Houston Rockets defense during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) take to the floor against the Houston Rockets during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) take to the floor against the Houston Rockets during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots past Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) strips the ball from Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) strips the ball from Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) gets a high-five from forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) after picking up a foul during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) gets a high-five from forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) after picking up a foul during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) shoots a 3-pointer during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots past Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots past Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during the second half of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jason Fochtman\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) drives to the basket around Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) drives to the basket around Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) muscles to the basket against Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) muscles to the basket against Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) drives to the basket past Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) drives to the basket past Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to the final seconds of game action against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to the final seconds of game action against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) attempts a shot over Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) attempts a shot over Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets fans react to the final seconds of game play against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets fans react to the final seconds of game play against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) dunks the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) dunks the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta leaves Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta leaves Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Fred Vanvleet (5) comforts Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Fred Vanvleet (5) comforts Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) drives to the basket against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) drives to the basket against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks with Houston Rockets forward Jae\u2019Sean Tate (8) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks with Houston Rockets forward Jae\u2019Sean Tate (8) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) stops Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) drive to the basket during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) stops Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) drive to the basket during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dunks the ball over Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dunks the ball over Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) puts up a shot against Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) puts up a shot against Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to making a three pointer against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to making a three pointer against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to making a three pointer against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to making a three pointer against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28), from left, talks with guard Reed Sheppard (15) with forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) after Sheppard got into a jump ball situation with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28), from left, talks with guard Reed Sheppard (15) with forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) after Sheppard got into a jump ball situation with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28), from left, talks with guard Reed Sheppard (15) with forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) after Sheppard got into a jump ball situation with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28), from left, talks with guard Reed Sheppard (15) with forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) after Sheppard got into a jump ball situation with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to getting into a jump ball with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to getting into a jump ball with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to getting into a jump ball with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) reacts to getting into a jump ball with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"A Houston Rockets fan holds up a sign during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Houston Rockets fan holds up a sign during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets Clutch hugs a fan after he hit a layup, free throw, three-point shot and a half-court shot for $25000 during at time out Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets Clutch hugs a fan after he hit a layup, free throw, three-point shot and a half-court shot for $25000 during at time out Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) talks with referee Tre Maddox (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) talks with referee Tre Maddox (23) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) keeps his eye on a loose ball turnover by Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) keeps his eye on a loose ball turnover by Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) drives to the basket past Houston Rockets defense during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) drives to the basket past Houston Rockets defense during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) tries to get a shot up around Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) tries to get a shot up around Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) intercepts a pass intended for Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) intercepts a pass intended for Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) fouls Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) on a break away during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) fouls Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) on a break away during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks with Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks with Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dishes off the ball against Houston Rockets during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dishes off the ball against Houston Rockets during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket past Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) drives to the basket past Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) drives to the basket around Houston Rockets defense during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) drives to the basket around Houston Rockets defense during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks with Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks with Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (17) during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) dunks the ball against Houston Rockets during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) dunks the ball against Houston Rockets during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston musician Paul Wall performed  during the half time of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston musician Paul Wall performed  during the half time of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets fans watch Paul Wall perform during halft time of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets fans watch Paul Wall perform during halft time of Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston musician Paul Wall performed  during the half time of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston musician Paul Wall performed  during the half time of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) watches his team take on the Houston Rockets during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) watches his team take on the Houston Rockets during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) puts a shot up over Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) puts a shot up over Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart (36) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston musician Paul Wall performed  during the half time of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston musician Paul Wall performed  during the half time of  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) celebrates his three pointer during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) celebrates his three pointer during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) picks Houston Rockets forward Jae\u2019Sean Tate (8) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) picks Houston Rockets forward Jae\u2019Sean Tate (8) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jae\u2019Sean Tate (8) guards Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jae\u2019Sean Tate (8) guards Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) drives to the basket past Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) drives to the basket past Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) puts up a three pointer over Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) puts up a three pointer over Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt (2) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) tries to get a shot off around Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) tries to get a shot off around Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick watches his team take on the Houston Rockets during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick watches his team take on the Houston Rockets during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) defends Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Reed Sheppard (15) defends Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) tries to get around Houston Rockets guard Fred Vanvleet (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia (12) tries to get around Houston Rockets guard Fred Vanvleet (5) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) and Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) go after a loose ball during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) and Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) go after a loose ball during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) engages with referee Ray Acosta (54) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) engages with referee Ray Acosta (54) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta talks to fans during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta talks to fans during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) puts up a shot against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks to his team during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets Head Coach Ime Udoka talks to his team during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) tries to get a shot off over Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard\/forward Amen Thompson (1) tries to get a shot off over Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) wanted a foul called against Los Angeles Lakers during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) wanted a foul called against Los Angeles Lakers during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) puts up a shot over Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) puts up a shot over Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes (11) during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) warms up before  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) warms up before  Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers  at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"T-shirts with the Rocket\u2019s theme \u201cAll Fire\u201d fill the seats as Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) shoots around before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>T-shirts with the Rocket\u2019s theme \u201cAll Fire\u201d fill the seats as Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) shoots around before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) walks into the Toyota Center before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie (20) shoots around before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie (20) shoots around before Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets center Steven Adams (12) is on the sidelines during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets center Steven Adams (12) is on the sidelines during the first half in Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets fans react to the final seconds of game play against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets fans react to the final seconds of game play against the Los Angeles Lakers during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<img alt=\"Houston Rockets fans react to the final seconds of regulation during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Houston Rockets fans react to the final seconds of regulation during Game 3 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series at Toyota Center in Houston on Friday, April 24, 2026. Los Angeles Lakers won the game 112-108 in OT and now lead the series 3-0..<\/p>\n<p>Elizabeth Conley\/Houston Chronicle<\/p>\n<p>Sheppard, who played sparingly in last year\u2019s playoff loss to Golden State, did not use his inexperience as an explanation.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cNo,\u201d he said when asked if it played a factor. \u201cI\u2019ve played basketball long enough. Dribbling up the court with 30 seconds left is dribbling up the court with 30 seconds left.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, Udoka seemed to have enough of the Rockets&#8217; youthful mistakes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cGrow up,\u201d he said when asked his message to the team after the loss. \u201cYou\u2019re not that young anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>He added: \u201cI talk about age all the time but I\u2019m not talking about 23, 22, whatever it is. I\u2019m looking at five years, four years, three years in the league and going from there and not learning from previous experiences.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Late-game execution has been a weakness for Houston all season, the coach acknowledged. The Rockets ended the regular season with the seventh-worst net rating (point differential per 100 possessions) in clutch situations \u2014 under five minutes left when the game is within five points or few.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>It is hard to know exactly where the blame lies for that. Some of it probably stems from not having a veteran point guard or a calming ballhandling presence. Some of it also likely stems from coaching\u00a0\u2014 too often, the Rockets get frazzled late in games.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>But on Friday, both giveaways seemed the fault of the players alone, with better alternatives in front of them \u2014 and led to the worst blown lead in a season filled with them, a collapse that all but ends this Houston season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The Lakers&#8217;\u00a0LeBron James pokes the ball away from the Rockets&#8217; Reed Sheppard, setting up his own tying 3-pointer&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":265622,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[56,58,57],"class_list":{"0":"post-265621","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-houston","8":"tag-houston","9":"tag-houston-headlines","10":"tag-houston-news"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/265621","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=265621"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/265621\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/265622"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=265621"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=265621"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=265621"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}