LeBron James came up against Zion Williamson for the second time when Los Angeles Lakers played New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday.

When the two met for the first time a few weeks ago, it was the veteran that prevailed over the rookie. James had scored a season-high 40 points overshadowing Williamson’s performance. Williamson, however, received James’ praise after the game.

“The kid is special,” James had said of Zion after his first meeting. “In today’s game, where it’s a track race, it’s fast-paced, it’s high tempo, it fits his game perfectly. And the way they did play, it fits his game perfectly.”

Williamson has indeed been special since his NBA debut. He has averaged 23.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game in 14 NBA games so far, shooting 59.3% from field goals.

LeBron James responds to Zion Williamson with a 34-foot three

On Sunday, Williamson scored a career-high 35 points and topped it with seven rebounds. Meanwhile, James registered a triple-double with 34 points, 13 assists, and 12 rebounds.

The two were responding to each others’ plays almost immediately. One such moment came towards the end of the first half. Seconds after an impressive slam from Williamson, James took the ball and put in a 34-feet three-pointer.

At the end of the game, James shared a lovely gesture as he embraced Williamson.

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James marked his 94th career triple-double on Sunday. It was also the 12th of the season, equalling with Luka Doncic for the most number of triple-doubles this season. He made 14 out of 21 field goals during his Sunday’s performance.

“Just trying to be patient, understanding that every possession tonight was going to be very critical and just trying to get the best shot possible,” James said after the game.

Williamson also had good numbers finishing with a career-high 35 points. But it was the veteran that emerged victorious in the Western Conference clash.