The Los Angeles Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers entered Friday with two of the best records in the NBA, even if it was improbable at the start of the season. In a game that was seemingly within a point or two for all four quarters, the Clippers came through down the stretch and saw Chris Paul hit a 16-foot jumper with just seconds remaining on the clock to give them a huge 78-77 victory.
In what was a defensive-minded game, Paul led all scorers with 24 points. The veteran point guard also brought down four rebounds and dished out four assists. Blake Griffin recorded yet another double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Mo Williams added 14 off the bench despite a poor shooting night. As a whole the Clippers made just 38.8% of their shots from the field and missed 17 of their 19 3-point attempts.
The 76ers took a late one point lead after two clutch free throws from Thaddeus Young, but they were simply not able to come up with a stop when it mattered most. Andre Iguodala continued to play well and ended the game with 12 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. The loss drops Philadelphia to 18-9 on the season.
This was a big game for Los Angeles and they came through in the closing moments. Next up will be the Charlotte Bobcats on Saturday night. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. from Charlotte, which is 4 p.m. locally in L.A.
For more on the team and to discuss tonight's victory, head on over to Clippers Nation.