The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a thrilling overtime victory over the Utah Jazz on Saturday night, thanks to a stellar performance from LeBron James. The four-time MVP scored 37 points, including a clutch three-pointer that tied the game with 2.1 seconds left in regulation. He also added five rebounds, six assists and one steal in 38 minutes of action.
Lebron James Reacts to Lakers Teammates making Goat Animal Noises in Locker Room
While James was doing his postgame interview on the court, his teammates had a different way of showing their appreciation for his heroics. They started making goat noises in the locker room, loud enough for James and the reporters to hear. The goat noises were a reference to the acronym G.O.A.T., which stands for Greatest Of All Time, a title that many fans and analysts have bestowed upon James.
However, James did not seem amused by his teammates’ antics. He simply said “I’m trying to stay focused, I’m locked in” and continued with his interview. He did not crack a smile or acknowledge the goat noises, even though they were meant as a compliment. James seemed so focused on the upcoming playoffs that he did not want to get distracted by anything else.
James has a good reason to be locked in. The Lakers are currently tied with the Los Angeles Clippers for the sixth seed in the Western Conference, with a few games left in the regular season. If the Lakers can beat the Clippers, they can grab the sixth spot and inch closer to avoiding the play-in tournament, which involves the teams ranked seventh to tenth. The play-in tournament adds an extra layer of uncertainty and risk for any team that wants to make the playoffs.
The Lakers have been dealing with injuries and inconsistency all season long, and they need James to be at his best if they want to defend their championship. James missed several weeks games with a torn foot tendon, which he is currently playing through. He said he is not 100 percent healthy yet, but he is willing to play through pain and lead his team.
James has proven time and time again that he can elevate his game when it matters most even at his tender age. He has won four championships, four Finals MVPs and four regular season MVPs in his illustrious career. He has also made 10 Finals appearances. He is widely regarded as one of the best players in NBA history, and some even consider him the best ever.
That is why his teammates were making goat noises in the locker room. They know how lucky they are to have James on their side. They know how much he means to their success. They know how hard he works and how much he sacrifices for the team. They know he is a living legend with many years still left in the tank.
James does not need goat noises to remind him of his greatness. He knows what he has done and what he can do. He knows what he is chasing and what he is fighting for. He knows he has a chance to make history again this season.
He is trying to stay locked in.
