INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Kawhi Leonard’s clutch performance secured the Los Angeles Clippers a thrilling 111-110 overtime victory against the Sacramento Kings on March 9, 2025. With time winding down, Leonard sank the game-winning shot, bringing the crowd at Intuit Dome to its feet.
The tightly contested match was filled with notable performances, particularly from James Harden, who led the Clippers with 29 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds. Ivica Zubac also contributed significantly, recording 22 points and 14 rebounds as Los Angeles fought to maintain their playoff positioning.
Heading down the stretch, the game was punctuated by the back-and-forth scoring, especially during overtime. DeMar DeRozan put the Kings up by one point after hitting two free throws with just 20 seconds remaining. Leonard, determined to deliver, took control of the final possession. He maneuvered through the defenders, finally backing down Kings forward Keegan Murray before launching his left-handed shot, which bounced twice on the rim before falling through the net as the buzzer sounded.
Reflecting on the game, Leonard expressed gratitude for the victory but admitted he was not entirely satisfied with how the game unfolded. “Just grateful we got the win. Happy the ball went in,” Leonard said after the game. He pointed out the challenge of both teams exchanging baskets, praising his teammates for their composure and contributions. “James pretty much carried us down the stretch,” he added.
With the win, the Clippers extended their winning streak to three games, boosting their record to 35-29 and solidifying their eighth position in the Western Conference. Notably, they now hold a 1.5-game cushion over the ninth-place Kings, who dropped to 33-30 after the loss.
Acting head coach Brian Shaw, who filled in for Tyronn Lue after the head coach left early due to back pain, expressed confidence in Leonard’s ability to perform under pressure. He cleared the floor to give Leonard the space needed for the last shot. “I told him to make sure he took the last shot and for everybody to just space out. It really was just about letting him do his thing,” Shaw stated.
Although Leonard had been struggling throughout the night, shooting 6-for-18 from the field and going 1-for-7 from three-point range, he showcased the confidence and qualities of a superstar, which have defined his career. James Harden reinforced this sentiment, stating, “Big-time players make big-time plays. He struggled, but when time is needed, he steps up and makes big-time shots.”
The game’s intensity was palpable, as the lead exchanged hands multiple times throughout the overtime period. Earlier in the match, the Kings had led 97-90 with under two minutes left on the clock, but the Clippers rallied back behind Leonard's leadership and strategic plays.
Harden was instrumental during the victory, scoring six of his points in the extra period, including a key floater with under 30 seconds left to put the Clippers momentarily ahead. Following DeRozan's free throws, the Clippers had to regroup, drawing up a final play.
Shaw noted the importance of the win, stating it solidified their position against their playoff rivals. The Clippers had faced pressure from the Kings, who were narrowly trailing them in the standings, emphasizing the significance of every victory as the regular season nears its conclusion.
Leonard's triumphant shot added another chapter to his storied career, marking his first game-winning buzzer-beater since his iconic moment against the Philadelphia 76ers when he played for the Toronto Raptors. That shot had ended the series, securing the team’s advancement during the 2019 playoffs.
“The great players always seem to find their way back to making big plays,” said Shaw, who is stepping up during this period as the team battles through injuries. Leonard, who has been under minutes restriction all season due to injury concerns, showed his commitment to the team’s cause, insisting on playing more minutes to help the team clinch the win.
Despite his struggles, Leonard's confidence during key moments of the game demonstrates his readiness for what’s next. He said, “I’m not thinking about accolades, it’s one game. My goal is to be healthy at the end of the season to help the team.”
With the next challenge looming, the Clippers will take on the New Orleans Pelicans as they hope to continue their winning streak and solidify their playoff spot. The road ahead includes facing multiple teams under .500, providing them opportunities to perform and build momentum.
After Sunday’s comeback victory, Leonard’s buzzer-beater has not only invigorated the team but has also renewed hope for fans anticipating playoff success. The atmosphere at Intuit Dome following the final shot was electric, with Leonard and his teammates celebrating together, sending a message to the league about their resilience.