Marcus Smart owns error as Lakers hold on: 'Never happen again'

Marcus Smart owns error as Lakers hold on

LOS ANGELES — The Lakers escaped with a narrow 118–116 win over the Spurs on Wednesday night after a late inbounding mistake from Marcus Smart nearly cost them the game. With 1.2 seconds remaining and Los Angeles holding a two-point lead, Smart stepped on the end line while attempting to pass the ball to Rui Hachimura, resulting in a turnover that gave San Antonio one final chance.

Julian Champagnie was fouled by Lakers forward Jake LaRavia with just 0.2 seconds left. Champagnie missed his first free throw and intentionally missed the second in hopes of creating a tip-in opportunity, but the Lakers managed to hold on as time expired.

Marcus Smart takes responsibility

“I couldn’t believe it,” Smart said. “I mean, I think when I released the ball, they said I stepped over the line. I’m like, we see that play all the time — a guy gets the ball out quick, his leg hovers past the line, and he still inbounds it with no call.”

Smart, who finished with 17 points, five rebounds, and five assists while going a perfect 10-for-10 from the free-throw line, admitted his frustration but accepted accountability for the mistake. He added that had the pass reached Hachimura cleanly, the clock likely would have expired before the Spurs could foul.

Game summary

Lakers defeated Spurs 118–116.
Marcus Smart’s late turnover gave San Antonio a final possession.
Julian Champagnie’s missed free throws sealed the win for Los Angeles.
Smart finished with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Author’s summary: Marcus Smart’s late misstep nearly cost the Lakers their victory, but his quick accountability and the team’s resilience secured a narrow 118–116 win over San Antonio.

ABC7 Los Angeles — 2025-11-06