SAN DIEGO (Interstat) — The San Diego Clippers used a dominant second quarter and a late surge to outlast the South Bay Lakers 124-113 in a G League matchup on Saturday night at Frontwave Arena.

In a game that featured 18 lead changes and 10 ties, the Clippers seized control with a 36-point second quarter, turning a one-point deficit after the first period into a 68-60 halftime lead. The Lakers mounted a challenge with a 34-point third quarter to close the gap, but San Diego’s offense proved too potent down the stretch, securing the victory in the final minutes.

Taylor Funk led the charge for the Clippers, showcasing his scoring versatility from inside and beyond the arc. His back-to-back three-pointers early in the fourth quarter were pivotal in creating separation from a persistent Lakers squad. He was supported by a balanced attack from Jason Preston, who orchestrated the offense with precision, and Derek Ogbeide, who provided a strong interior presence on both ends of the court.

For South Bay, Kylor Kelley was a defensive force, amassing a significant number of rebounds and blocked shots that kept the Lakers competitive throughout the contest. R.J. Davis provided a consistent scoring punch, particularly during the Lakers’ third-quarter rally, while Tevian Jones offered valuable offensive production off the bench.

The game opened at a frantic pace, with both teams trading baskets. South Bay’s Anton Watson connected on an early three-pointer, but San Diego responded with a 10-2 run, capped by a Jason Preston three, to take a brief lead. The first quarter concluded with a flurry of three-pointers, leaving the Lakers with a narrow 33-32 edge.

The momentum shifted decisively in the second period. The Clippers’ offense found its rhythm, embarking on a 14-4 run to build a double-digit advantage. South Bay struggled to contain San Diego’s ball movement and shooting, as the Clippers shot efficiently from the floor to establish their eight-point halftime lead.

Emerging from the break, the Lakers chipped away at the deficit. A 10-2 run of their own, fueled by R.J. Davis and Kylor Kelley, brought them back within striking distance. The third quarter became a back-and-forth affair, with South Bay eventually outscoring San Diego in the period to narrow the gap to 95-94 heading into the final frame.

The Clippers, however, opened the fourth quarter on a 9-2 run, highlighted by Funk’s consecutive three-pointers, to rebuild a comfortable lead. South Bay managed to close within four points with just over five minutes remaining, but could not complete the comeback as San Diego executed in the final moments to seal the win.

With the victory, the San Diego Clippers improved their season record to 4-2. The South Bay Lakers, meanwhile, fell to 5-2. The two teams are scheduled for a quick rematch on Sunday night at the same venue.