THOUSAND PALMS, RIVERSIDE COUNTY — November 7, 2026. The Coachella Valley Lakers celebrated their first NBA G League game with a 104–98 victory over the Salt Lake City Stars at Acrisure Arena on Friday night.

Key performances

Cole Swider led the Lakers with 23 points and eight rebounds, while Bronny James recorded 22 points, five rebounds and seven assists, according to KESQ’s game report. James and Cameron Carr, assigned from the Los Angeles Lakers, scored the new team’s first two baskets.

Why the debut matters

The G League franchise adds another professional sports team to the Coachella Valley, with regular-season home games and opportunities for fans to watch younger players develop. The opening victory is a milestone for a club entering its first season, not evidence of how the rest of the season will unfold.

Next games

The Lakers are scheduled to remain at home for games against the San Diego Clippers on Monday and Tuesday, November 9–10. Game times, tickets and rosters should be confirmed on the team’s official site before visiting. Players assigned from the NBA may be recalled, so Friday’s lineup is not guaranteed to appear in future contests.

Source: KESQ, updated November 7, 2026.

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