The Lakers vs Spurs Summer League matchup on July 8, 2025, delivered all the drama you could want from offseason basketball. Taking place at the Chase Center in San Francisco as part of the 2025 California Classic, the game featured breakout performances, a frantic fourth-quarter rally, and a walk-off game-winner that reminded everyone why Summer League matters.
Darius Bazley was the hero of a game that was full of momentum changes and great rookies. He made a putback dunk with 1.2 seconds left to give the Los Angeles Lakers an 89–88 triumph over the San Antonio Spurs.
Lakers Rally Late Behind Bazley’s Heroics
The first three quarters belonged to the Spurs. San Antonio looked composed, aggressive, and in control for much of the night. But the final period was a different story. Trailing by 14 points with just under 9 minutes to play, the Lakers launched a furious 20–5 fourth-quarter run that culminated with Bazley’s emphatic slam over two defenders.
Bazley, who finished with 27 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals, was the undisputed star of the night. He was efficient, aggressive, and most importantly, poised in clutch moments. His presence on both ends was critical to the Lakers’ comeback and proved why he’s still a viable candidate for a rotational NBA role.
“He was the calm in the chaos,” said Lakers Summer League coach Dane Johnson. “Darius played like a man on a mission.”
The game-winning dunk was more than a highlight—it was a punctuation mark on a dominant performance that re-energized the Lakers’ Summer League campaign.
Dalton Knecht Impresses Again
While Bazley closed the game, it was Dalton Knecht, the Lakers’ first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, who kept them competitive early. Knecht poured in 25 points and 8 rebounds, showcasing the same scoring versatility that made him a standout at Tennessee.
From deep three-pointers to strong finishes at the rim, Knecht displayed elite shot mechanics, body control, and decision-making—rare for a rookie in just his third Summer League game.
“Dalton’s been fantastic,” Johnson said. “He has an NBA-ready jumper and a feel for the game that you just can’t teach.”
The chemistry between Knecht and Bazley down the stretch was noticeable. Both players fed off each other’s energy, turning defensive stops into transition opportunities that slowly chipped away at the Spurs’ lead.
Spurs Show Promise Despite Collapse
For the first 30 minutes of the game, the Spurs looked dominant. Led by David Jones-Garcia, San Antonio built and maintained a comfortable double-digit lead through consistent ball movement and perimeter shooting. Jones-Garcia led all Spurs scorers with 25 points, hitting shots from all three levels and taking advantage of mismatches.
In the backcourt, Jamaree Bouyea added 15 points and 7 assists, orchestrating the offense with impressive control. He consistently found open shooters, attacked closeouts, and played solid on-ball defense.
However, the Spurs collapsed in the fourth quarter under the Lakers’ increasing defensive pressure. Their offense became stagnant, and turnovers at critical junctures gave Los Angeles life. Ultimately, their inability to close allowed the Lakers to steal the win.
“It’s a lesson for our young guys,” Spurs coach Blake Ahearn noted. “You can’t let up—not even for a second.”
Bronny James Continues to Find His Footing
With all eyes on Bronny James, the highly anticipated rookie continued his Summer League campaign with a quiet performance. Bronny finished the game with 2 points on 1-of-5 shooting, along with 3 turnovers and 2 assists in just under 18 minutes.
While his numbers don’t jump off the page, James showed flashes of defensive awareness and unselfish play. The Lakers are not rushing his development, focusing instead on steady improvement.
“We’re not worried about box scores,” Johnson said. “Bronny is learning. This is about development.”
Bronny is still one of the most-watched players in the tournament, even if his professional career got off to a poor start. The Lakers are sure that the reps he’s getting will help him progress in the long run.
Lakers vs Spurs Summer League Rivalry Taking Shape
Although it’s early, the Lakers vs Spurs Summer League games are beginning to develop a rivalry flavor. With both franchises focusing on homegrown development and building through the draft, these games are proving to be more than just tune-ups—they’re previews of future Western Conference clashes.
This game, in particular, highlighted the contrasting styles: the Spurs’ system-based offense versus the Lakers’ high-octane, player-driven explosiveness. While San Antonio executed for three quarters, the Lakers’ athleticism and intensity won out in crunch time.
Looking Ahead: Vegas Awaits
With this win, the Lakers improved to 2–1 in the California Classic, wrapping up their time in San Francisco on a high note. They now turn their attention to the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas, where competition will intensify and rosters will deepen.
Meanwhile, the Spurs drop to 1–2, but leave the California Classic with several positives, including the emergence of Jones-Garcia as a legitimate two-way wing prospect.
The real tests begin on July 10 as both teams join the full Summer League field in Las Vegas, facing tougher opposition, higher stakes, and greater visibility.
Final Stats at a Glance
| Category | Lakers | Spurs |
| Final Score | 89 | 88 |
| Leading Scorer | Darius Bazley – 27 pts | David Jones-Garcia – 25 pts |
| Rebounds Leader | Dalton Knecht – 8 | Charles Bediako – 10 |
| Assist Leader | Scotty Pippen Jr. – 6 | Jamaree Bouyea – 7 |
| Key Highlight | Bazley’s game-winner | Spurs’ 14-point lead |
Conclusion
The Lakers vs Spurs Summer League game offered fans a glimpse into the NBA’s future. From breakout performances by Knecht and Bazley to the quiet evolution of Bronny James, this matchup proved that Summer League basketball can be just as thrilling and meaningful as any regular season contest.
As the teams head to Las Vegas, one thing is clear—if this game was any indication, the youth movement in the NBA is alive, well, and ready to take center stage. Follow 123JILI for more sports update.
