Bradley Beal

The battle against the NBA’s proverbial “Father Time” may be one that LeBron James’ athleticism has eluded, in a manner unlike perhaps any player in basketball’s history. On November 26, 2024, though — even if only for a possession — a “rising sun” of sorts from Phoenix took flight, temporarily allowing the Los Angeles Lakers superstar to meet his match on the fastbreak. Somewhat unassuming in his defensive chase in transition, Bradley Beal, unquestionably aware of James’ open-floor tendencies in head-to-head matchup No. 27 between the two, benefits from bought time after his teammate’s defense encourages a spin move. Elevated, and prepared to give one of the league’s great chasedown block artists a taste of his own medicine, Beal extends, swatting the layup attempt away vigorously. Spry in his movements throughout the nationally-televised clash, the three-time All-Star supplied dynamic highlights on both sides of the floor, ultimately encouraging for a 23-point showing (on 10-of-15 shooting), paired with a two-rebound, two-assist, one-block, three-trifecta complement. Beal’s lights-out play helped the Phoenix Suns conquer the first of a back-to-back set, allowing him a memorable comeback from a five-game absence.