EL SEGUNDO — The South Bay Lakers leaned on their depth Wednesday night, erupting in the fourth quarter to defeat the San Diego Clippers 128-116 at UCLA Health Training Center.
South Bay improved to 11-8 on the season and an impressive 9-1 at home after outscoring San Diego 35-22 in the final period. The Lakers trailed 94-93 entering the fourth quarter before their reserve unit took over, accounting for all 35 points in the decisive frame and 68 total points on the night.
Forward Tevian Jones led five South Bay players in double figures, tying a season high with 24 points on 10-of-15 shooting, including 4-of-7 from 3-point range. Jones caught fire after halftime, pouring in 22 of his 24 points in the second half to help swing the momentum.
Los Angeles Lakers two-way forward Drew Timme added 20 points, six rebounds and three assists, while guard RJ Davis filled the stat sheet with 18 points, five rebounds and five assists. Forward Anton Watson contributed 15 points, seven rebounds and six assists in a well-rounded effort.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James Jr., on assignment, chipped in 12 points, three rebounds, six assists and two blocks, providing energy on both ends during the comeback surge.
San Diego was paced by John Poulakidas, who scored a game-high 30 points to go along with seven rebounds. Jaelen House recorded a double-double with 18 points and 17 assists, while Hunter Sallis added 20 points. Cam Reddish and Zach Freemantle each finished with 13 points, and Jahmyl Telfort added 11.
But it was South Bay’s defense in the final quarter that proved decisive. The Clippers’ 22 fourth-quarter points tied a regular-season low for a South Bay opponent, matching the mark set Jan. 20 at Rio Grande Valley.
The Lakers’ depth and balanced scoring once again underscored why they’ve been so dominant at home this season, turning a tight three-quarter battle into a double-digit victory down the stretch.
South Bay now heads to Frisco, Texas, on Friday to begin a four-game road trip against the Texas Legends before returning home to host Stockton on Feb. 28.