NBA fans are still reeling after a heated moment in Game 4 of the first-round playoff series between the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves. One of the biggest flashpoints came in the closing seconds of the fourth quarter, when a controversial reversal shifted momentum — and the final result.
With just 10.7 seconds left on the clock, officials initially called a turnover on Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards after he lost control of the ball. But after a review, the play was overturned — instead, LeBron James was hit with a shooting foul for allegedly making contact with Edwards’ hand while trying to strip the ball.
The change proved pivotal. Edwards sank both free throws, securing Minnesota’s 116-113 victory and pushing the Lakers to the brink of elimination.
LeBron addressed the incident in his post-game comments, and his words quickly lit up social media.
“That play happens all the time,” James explained. “Hand is part of the ball, that’s what they say. I felt like the hand was a part of that ball. I was able to get his hand on top of the ball, the ball stripped down and out on him. So I’ve seen that play over and over before, but it is what it is.”
Social media exploded in response — and most fans weren’t buying what LeBron was selling.
“This man cannot be for real..,” one user wrote. Another quipped, “Brother you drilled his wrist and forearm. Sit this one out.”
Some were more sarcastic: “LeBron out here rewriting physics. Next he’s gonna say ‘the court is part of the player.'”
A few fans did back LeBron’s take, but the dominant reaction was one of disbelief and frustration. With the Lakers trailing 3-1 in the series, the pressure is sky-high heading into Game 5 on Wednesday in Los Angeles — a must-win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
