South Bay Lakers Set Franchise Record With 11th Consecutive Victory
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The South Bay Lakers pushed their winning streak to 11 games on Friday night, the longest run in franchise history, by defeating the Iowa Wolves in G League action.
Rookie guard Nick Smith Jr. led the way with 22 points, while fellow first-year forward Adou Thiero added 20. Kobe Bufkin scored 16 and Bronny James contributed 13 as South Bay continued a surge that began more than a month ago.
Head coach JJ Redick, in his first season guiding the Los Angeles Lakers, has emphasized the importance of the organization’s G League affiliate as a development pipeline under the NBA’s current collective bargaining agreement. “We’re all one team,” Redick said earlier in the week, crediting South Bay head coach Zach Guthrie for fostering growth among players on two-way and rookie contracts.
Redick highlighted the progress of Thiero, James, Smith and Drew Timme, noting that regular minutes in South Bay have accelerated their adjustment to the professional game. He also pointed to the improved perception of the G League, once viewed as a demotion but now a proven path to NBA success.
The Lakers’ developmental strategy comes as the parent club attempts to balance veteran leadership with emerging talent. Redick recently praised LeBron James for adapting his role upon returning from injury, allowing younger teammates to flourish without disrupting their rhythm.
South Bay will look to extend its record streak when it returns to the court next week.
Source: lakersnation.com
