Preview: Iowa Wolves at South Bay Lakers

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. (Interstat) — Two of the G League’s hottest players will clash when the South Bay Lakers host the Iowa Wolves on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the UCLA Health Training Center.

The matchup features a compelling contrast in recent team trajectories. The Lakers (26-15) enter on a five-game winning streak, last defeating Santa Cruz 113-104 on March 8. The Wolves (24-18), meanwhile, look to rebound from a high-scoring 142-132 home loss to Memphis that same day, which snapped a two-game win streak.

All eyes will be on Iowa guard Zyon Pullin, who has been on a historic individual tear. Over his last five games, Pullin is averaging 29.4 points, 6.0 rebounds and 6.4 assists, including a 36-point, 5-rebound, 5-assist performance in Sunday’s defeat. His backcourt mate, Jalen Crutcher, added 27 points and 10 assists in that game, while center Joan Beringer recorded a 20-point, 16-rebound double-double.

South Bay counters with its own rising talent in forward Adou Thiero. In the Lakers’ recent win over Santa Cruz, Thiero posted 25 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Over his last four appearances, he has provided efficient scoring and energy, averaging 16.5 points and 5.8 rebounds in just under 22 minutes per game. The Lakers’ balanced attack also features guard Nick Smith, who nearly had a triple-double (15 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists) in the last outing.

This will be the second meeting in three days between the teams, following a scheduled matchup on Wednesday, March 11. The quick rematch adds a layer of immediate playoff-style adjustment.

The Lakers hold the superior overall record and the momentum of a sustained win streak. However, the Wolves, led by the explosive Pullin, possess the offensive firepower to challenge any opponent. South Bay’s ability to contain Pullin and capitalize on its home floor will be critical.

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. PDT Friday.