Apologetic LeBron James makes feelings clear after failing to cheer up LA in first game back after wildfire tragedy 

LeBron James, who didn't speak to the media following the LA Lakers' blowout loss to the San Antonio Spurs, issued a heartfelt apology to the fans after the LA Lakers' convincing 117-108 win at the Crypto.com Arena. The 4x NBA champion sparked a solid scoring run in the final quarter to help LA pull away from a close contest, improve to 21-17, and take sixth seeding in the West.

Speaking to reporters after the win, James shed light on the need to have fared better as the Lakers were looking at a win against Victor Wembanyama and Co. to give fans some relief amid the devastating LA wildfires.

"We apologize for the other night. ... Hopefully we was able to bring a little excitement to the households today (amidst the recent tragedies in LA)," he said.

James ended his evening with 22 points, five rebounds, and nine assists. Anthony Davis helped himself to another DD2 with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while Rui Hachimura had a field day with 23 points and eight boards. Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent propped up 14 points each while Max Christie despite taking a hit to the knee had 16 points.

The combined efforts were needed for LA to stop Tyler Herro who threatened to take the game away from the Lakers for a second time this season with a game-high 34 points.

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LeBron James relives tough evacuating experience: "There's been a lot of emotions"

LeBron James recollected what it was like to evacuate as the wildfires spread rapidly across the city. Speaking to the media postgame, the veteran forward said his prayers are with the afflicted.

"There’s been a lot of emotions. I have a couple of dear friends that have lost their homes in the Palisades. Obviously, my heart goes out to all of the families, all across not only the (Pacific) Palisades but all across L.A. County and all the surrounding areas because of the fire and things of that nature. It’s been a lot of emotions. Personally, I’ve been off. Personally, my family, we’ve been evacuated since Thursday night, so I’ve been in a hotel since pretty much when we got back from Dallas. So, just figuring it out. But staying strong for one another. That’s most important," he said.

The Lakers' win restores some parity to their campaign while also bringing some joy to fans who have looked at sport as an outlet to bring some semblance of normalcy. It remains to be seen if LA and LeBron James can build from it.