CLEVELAND - Lonzo Ball got an up-close look at the biggest baller of them all.

LeBron James recorded his 59th career triple-double in front of Ball and his brothers, Kevin Love scored 28 points and the Cleveland Cavaliers won for the 16th time in 17 games, 121-112 over the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday.

James finished with 25 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists to move into a tie with Larry Bird for sixth place on the career triple-doubles list.

James also put the Lakers away in the final minutes with a dunk and short runner, leading Cleveland to its 10th straight home win.

"Watching him doesn't do him justice," Ball of his first on-court encounter with James. "He has that size, that speed. I'd say he's the best player in the world now."

James, who has been complimentary of the 20-year-old Ball in the past, spoke with the Lakers highly touted rookie after the game. The pair covered their mouths so the world couldn't listen in.

"It's always team," James said when asked what he admires most about the former UCLA star. "He passes the ball. Pushes the ball up the floor. Someone you want to play with."

Love scored 13 in the third quarter, when the Cavs opened an 11-point lead. Jose Calderon added a season-high 17 points for Cleveland.

Brandon Ingram scored 26 for the Lakers and Ball had 13 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds.

The first game between James and Ball had the buildup of a playoff clash as the world's best player matched up against a budding star.

Ball's father, LaVar, did not attend the game but his brothers, LiAngelo and LaM-elo, sat behind LA's bench.

Bird's the word

James was humbled to move into the same company as Boston Celtics legend Bird.

"He's one of the greatest players to ever play the game," James said. "Kid from French Lick (Indiana). Boston. He just played until he literally couldn't play no more.

"I've always been a fan of Larry Bird and if I'm linked with any of the greats, especially like him, it's pretty cool.

Associated Press