LeBron James sparked a humorous debate after the Los Angeles Lakers clinched the NBA In-Season Tournament Championship with a 123-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers. The spotlight wasn’t just on the Lakers’ star performance but also on Austin Reaves, who played through illness, contributing significantly to the win.
“Who had the better flu game: AR or MJ? It’s up for debate.”
LeBron said Austin Reaves had a better flu game than MJ
pic.twitter.com/l365E93yZN
— El Jefe (@klutchfamilia) December 10, 2023
After the game, LeBron James playfully questioned whether Austin Reaves or Michael Jordan had the better “flu game.” Reaves, bedridden due to a non-COVID illness, showcased remarkable resilience, finishing the game with 28 points, two rebounds, and three assists in 28 minutes.
Comparisons were drawn to Michael Jordan’s iconic “flu game” in the 1997 NBA Finals, where he battled through illness to lead the Chicago Bulls to victory against the Utah Jazz. Jordan’s performance included 38 points, seven rebounds, five assists, three steals, and one block.
While Jordan’s “flu game” remains legendary, LeBron James humorously elevated Reaves’ contribution, suggesting it’s up for debate who had the superior performance. The banter continued as LeBron acknowledged that Reaves wisely chose not to answer the question directly.
Despite the humorous tone, Reaves’ impact on the Lakers’ victory was substantial, helping secure the inaugural NBA Cup. The win also marked an important milestone for the Lakers, who are aiming to build momentum and climb the Western Conference standings for a potential run to the 2024 NBA Finals.
Reaves, a key player for the Lakers, signed a four-year, $56 million deal during the offseason and has consistently contributed to the team’s success. As the Lakers gear up for regular-season action, the In-Season Tournament Championship, though not counting toward regular-season standings, adds a valuable accomplishment to their campaign. The victory showcased Reaves’ resilience and competitiveness, leaving an indelible mark on the Lakers’ journey in the 2023-2024 NBA season.
Michael Jordan’s Flu Game Got Him His 5th Title While Austin Reaves Got $500,000
In the annals of NBA history, Michael Jordan’s “Flu Game” during the 1997 NBA Finals stands as a testament to his unparalleled greatness and competitive spirit. Battling through illness, Jordan delivered a performance for the ages, securing a 3-2 lead en route to his fifth NBA title with the Chicago Bulls. Facing the Utah Jazz in Game 5, Jordan’s stat line of 38 points, seven rebounds, five assists, three steals, and one block remains etched in basketball lore.
Jordan’s resilience in the face of adversity became the stuff of legends. Despite suffering from flu-like symptoms, he propelled the Bulls to a crucial victory, showcasing a level of determination and skill that solidified his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history. The image of Jordan being helped off the court by Scottie Pippen after the game is an iconic snapshot of his indomitable will.
Fast forward to the present day, and another narrative unfolds with Austin Reaves, a rising star with the Los Angeles Lakers. In the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament Championship, Reaves faced a different kind of battle—a non-COVID illness that had left him bedridden. Undeterred, Reaves made a pivotal decision to tough it out and take the court against the Indiana Pacers.
While the circumstances differed, Reaves’ impact on the game mirrored Jordan’s in its significance. Playing a crucial role off the bench, Reaves contributed 28 points, two rebounds, and three assists in 28 minutes, helping secure the Lakers’ victory in the tournament.
What adds a unique twist to Reaves’ story is the financial incentive tied to the In-Season Tournament. Each player on the winning team earned a $500,000 bonus—a substantial reward for their triumph. In this context, Reaves not only played a vital role in securing the Lakers’ championship in the tournament but also left Las Vegas with a significant financial boost.
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