LeBron James Bringing Back Iconic Chase Down Block Stuns Fans – “Vintage LeChasedown”

Anthony Black was the latest victim of LeBron James' chase-down block.

LeBron James Bringing Back Iconic Chase Down Block Stuns Fans – “Vintage LeChasedown”

LeBron James to miss his 18th game this season (Image via FirstSportz)

In Short
  • LeBron James showcased his iconic chase down block at age 41 during a game against the Orlando Magic.
  • The Los Angeles Lakers lost 110-109, marking their second defeat in three games since the All-Star break.
  • Luka Doncic hesitated on the final possession, leading to a missed opportunity for the Lakers to win the game.

Age is just a number for LeBron James as he continues to defy father time. James turned back the clock once again on Tuesday night. However, the Los Angeles Lakers came up short in a narrow 110-109 defeat to the Orlando Magic at the Crytpo.com Arena.

It was the Lakers’ second loss in three games since the All-Star break. The loss dropped them to sixth place in the Western Conference standings with a 34-23 record. They are just two games ahead of seventh place, Phoenix Suns. Meanwhile, Orlando Magic are closing into the top-six spots as they sit at seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings with a 31-26 record.

It was a battle between the two young stars, Luka Doncic and Paolo Banchero. Doncic, who is the focal point of the Lakers, missed a triple double as he posted a team-high 22 points, nine rebounds and 15 assists. Banchero has been on the receiving end of some criticism for his subpar 2025-26 campaign. But he was at his absolute best against the Lakers scoring a game-high 36 points to go along with 10 rebounds and six assists.

LeBron James has shown no signs of slowing down since turning 41. The four-time champion recorded 21 points, six rebounds and four assists but he stole the spotlight on Tuesday night.

During the second quarter, Magic player intercepted James’ pass to Austin Reaves and caused a turnover. As Black ran down the court for an easy layup, James pulled off his vintage chase-down block, which was reminiscent of his iconic block on Andre Iguodala in the 2016 NBA Finals.

It was an impressive defensive moment for James. The Lakers continued to struggle on defense, which has been a major cause for concern. It is one of the main reasons why they are not viewed as championship contenders this season.

Fans react to LeBron James’ chase-down block on Anthony Black

It is a delight to see LeBron James pulling off his signature chase-down blocks at 41. Black thought he had just Reaves to beat till James blocked his shot.

Following the block, fans could not contain their excitement and were quick to react across social media.

The 2025-26 campaign represents James’ 23rd season in the NBA. A number no player has achieved in league history. Hence, NBA fans were applauding James’ defensive block and his energy at this age. Unfortunately, they were not able to get away with a win

LeBron James misses on the last possession as Luka Doncic hesitates

With 6.7 seconds left in the match and the Magic up by one, it looked like the Lakers had enough time to respond. However, Doncic shied away from taking the last shot despite getting freed up for an open three-pointer near the top of the arc off the inbounds.

He inexplicably hesitated before double-pumping into defensive coverage and finally bounce-passing the ball back to a surprised James, who ended up missing at the buzzer. Following the loss, James was asked about the final play in his post-match locker-room interview. He said:

LeBron James and Luka Doncic
LeBron James and Luka Doncic (Image via Blockbet/X)

I’m not sure. Obviously you’ll have to ask Luka what he saw. I thought he had a good look and it looked like he kind of lost his balance and didn’t have a rhythm with the ball. I was kind of off balance when he gave it to me, I thought he had a great look. That’s my POV.

The Lakers end their eight-game home stretch at 4-4. They are scheduled to take on the Suns on February 26 at the Mortgage Matchup Center.

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