HOUSTON — LeBron James and Luka Doncic delivered a masterclass in scoring efficiency and playmaking, combining for 70 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 124-116 road win over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night at Toyota Center. The victory extended the Lakers’ winning streak to seven games — their longest of the season — and marked their 10th win in 11 outings.

Doncic paced the Lakers with a team-high 40 points on 7-of-17 shooting from three-point range (7 threes), adding nine rebounds and 10 assists for a near triple-double. James contributed 30 points on an extraordinary 13-of-14 shooting from the field (including 2-of-2 from deep), with five rebounds. The duo’s combined output marked a historic night, with James becoming the oldest player in NBA history at 41 years and 78 days to score 30+ points on 90%+ field goal percentage in a regular-season game. Doncic, meanwhile, surpassed Kobe Bryant for the most regular-season games in Lakers franchise history with 40+ points, 10+ assists and 5+ threes.

The Lakers (44-25) built early momentum, leading 35-26 after the first quarter behind sharp outside shooting and transition play. Houston (41-27) fought back in the third, outscoring Los Angeles 37-22 to take a brief lead, powered by Alperen Sengun’s 27 points and 10 assists and Amen Thompson’s 26 points and 11 rebounds. But the Lakers responded in the fourth, outscoring the Rockets 35-24 to seal the win.

A key sequence came with about 90 seconds remaining: Doncic found James for an alley-oop dunk to push the lead to four, followed by a Rockets turnover and a Doncic three-pointer that extended the advantage to 120-111. The Lakers’ defense clamped down late, limiting Houston to 24 fourth-quarter points.

James’ near-perfect shooting night tied the best single-game field goal percentage effort of his career, showcasing his continued elite efficiency at age 41. The performance also pushed him to 12,002 career rebounds, making him the 23rd player in NBA history to reach that milestone. Doncic’s 40-point outburst was his 11th of the season, underscoring his MVP-caliber form since joining the Lakers.

The win came just two days after the Lakers defeated Houston 100-92 on Monday, giving them a season series edge and tiebreaker advantage. Coach JJ Redick praised the duo’s chemistry postgame: “When LeBron and Luka are in rhythm like that, it’s tough to stop. They complement each other perfectly — Luka’s creation and LeBron’s finishing and decision-making.”

Houston, despite the loss, showed resilience with strong interior play from Sengun and Thompson. Kevin Durant added contributions off the bench, though specifics on his output were limited in reports. The Rockets remain competitive in the Western Conference but struggled to contain the Lakers’ star power in crunch time.

The victory bolsters the Lakers’ playoff positioning in a loaded Western Conference, where they sit third and continue building momentum toward the postseason. Doncic’s scoring and facilitation, paired with James’ veteran leadership and efficiency, have fueled the surge, raising expectations for a deep run.

Postgame reactions highlighted the historical significance. ESPN analysts noted the rarity of two superstars combining for 70 points in such efficient fashion, with James’ shooting percentage drawing comparisons to legendary performances. Fans on social media celebrated the “historic night,” with clips of Doncic’s deep threes and James’ alley-oop dunk circulating widely.

As the Lakers prepare for their next matchup, the focus remains on sustaining defensive intensity and health for their veteran core. With Doncic and James leading the charge, Los Angeles appears primed for contention.

The Rockets, meanwhile, regroup for their push toward the play-in or better seeding, relying on their young talent to bounce back.

The UK government has unveiled a major intervention in the steel market, setting an ambitious target to produce up to 50 per cent of the steel used domestically while imposing steep new tariffs on imports in a bid to protect the struggling industry.

Under the plans, import quotas will be reduced by 60 per cent from July, with any steel brought into the UK above those limits facing a punitive 50 per cent tariff. The move represents one of the most assertive steps taken by ministers in recent years to bolster domestic manufacturing capacity amid intensifying global competition.

Announcing the measures in Port Talbot, Business Secretary Peter Kyle said the strategy was designed to both strengthen UK industrial resilience and counter what he described as “anti-competitive behaviour” in global steel markets.

He confirmed the government aims to increase the proportion of British steel used in the UK economy from around 30 per cent to 50 per cent, although no specific deadline has yet been set for achieving the target.

The introduction of a 50 per cent tariff on excess imports marks a significant escalation in trade policy. While tariffs are paid by importing firms, the additional costs are typically passed through supply chains, potentially raising prices for manufacturers, construction firms and ultimately consumers.

Ministers insist the policy is not protectionist but rather a necessary safeguard in a market distorted by global overcapacity and subsidised production, particularly from overseas producers able to undercut UK manufacturers.

A transitional arrangement is being considered to soften the immediate impact, with contracts agreed before 14 March potentially exempt from the new tariffs for imports arriving between July and September.

The UK steel sector has broadly welcomed the announcement, having long called for stronger measures to shield it from cheaper imports and volatile global pricing.

Gareth Stace, head of industry body UK Steel, said the strategy represents a long-overdue shift in policy.

He said the UK had lacked a coherent industrial plan for steel for years, despite its central role in national security, infrastructure delivery and the transition to low-carbon energy systems. He added that a clear domestic strategy was essential if the sector is to survive and grow in an increasingly competitive global market.

Trade unions also cautiously backed the move. The GMB said the announcement was welcome but stressed that key questions remain around ownership structures, particularly at major sites such as Scunthorpe, and the long-term technological direction of the industry.

However, the policy has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures, who argue the tariffs risk increasing costs across the wider economy.

Andrew Griffith warned that higher import costs could ripple through key sectors such as construction, potentially reducing infrastructure investment and placing additional pressure on UK manufacturers already facing tight margins.

The concern reflects a broader economic tension: while tariffs may support domestic producers, they can also raise input costs for downstream industries that rely on competitively priced materials.

The intervention comes at a critical moment for the UK steel industry, which has faced years of financial strain driven by high energy costs, global oversupply and shifting demand.

Although recent government support has helped reduce energy costs for intensive users, UK producers still face higher bills than many European and US competitors. That gap could widen further if global energy markets remain volatile.

Fears are growing that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could push oil and gas prices higher for longer, increasing operating costs for energy-intensive industries such as steelmaking.

The government’s push to increase domestic steel production also reflects broader strategic concerns. Ministers are keen to ensure the UK retains sovereign capability in critical industries, particularly as geopolitical tensions expose vulnerabilities in global supply chains.

This is underscored by the government’s direct involvement in key steel assets, including sites in Scunthorpe and Rotherham, where public funds are currently being used to maintain operations that might otherwise have ceased.

At the same time, investment in new technology is beginning to reshape the sector. At Port Talbot, Tata Steel is developing an electric arc furnace, which will recycle scrap metal to produce steel with significantly lower carbon emissions — a key component of the UK’s net zero ambitions.

The success of the government’s strategy will ultimately depend on whether it can strike a balance between protecting domestic producers and maintaining competitiveness across the broader economy.

While boosting local production could strengthen supply chain resilience and support jobs, the risk remains that higher costs could dampen demand and investment elsewhere.

For now, the policy signals a decisive shift towards a more interventionist industrial strategy — one that places steel at the heart of the UK’s economic, environmental and national security priorities.

Amy Ingham

Amy is a newly qualified journalist specialising in business journalism at Business Matters with responsibility for news content for what is now the UK’s largest print and online source of current business news.

Comedian Kevin Hart turned a potentially flattering moment into comedy gold when he roasted his own wax figure at the Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, calling it an “attack” and demanding a complete redo. The figure, unveiled recently, went viral this week after Hart posted a scathing yet humorous reaction on Instagram on March 14, 2026, drawing millions of views and thousands of comments from fans who agreed the likeness fell short.

The wax statue depicts Hart in a black T-shirt, black pants, leather jacket and a prominent long gold chain, with arms outstretched in a pose meant to capture his energetic stage presence. But the resemblance drew immediate criticism for inaccuracies in facial features, proportions and overall vibe. Hart, 46 (turning 47 soon), shared a video of the figure set to the theme from “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” overlaying text reading “I know that ain’t Kevin Hart.”

“WTTTTFFFFF …. What did I do to these people…. This is an attack…. Who in the f–k is this??????” Hart captioned the post. “At this point these museums are just trying to make me cry 🥺😂😂😂😂….. This s–t has to stop…. I demand a redo damn it!!!!!!!”

The Instagram reel quickly amassed over 13 million views, nearly 371,000 likes and more than 26,000 comments within days. Fans flooded the replies with jokes, comparisons and memes. Some likened the figure to a mix of Cuba Gooding Jr. and other celebrities, while others quipped about the height being the only accurate detail. Actress Jameela Jamil commented that it was “the worst one I’ve ever seen of anyone.” Even Hart’s frequent collaborator Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson chimed in playfully, posting he had “no notes” on the figure, adding to the lighthearted roasting.

Hart’s reaction exemplifies his signature self-deprecating humor, turning what could have been an embarrassing oversight into viral entertainment. The comedian, known for films like “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and stand-up specials, has a history of embracing internet memes and fan interactions, often amplifying moments that poke fun at himself.

The Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge, a popular tourist spot in the Smoky Mountains, features celebrity replicas but is separate from the more renowned Madame Tussauds chain, which has its own Hart figures in locations like New York and Hollywood. Those Madame Tussauds versions have generally received better reviews, though wax figures occasionally spark debates over accuracy across museums.

This isn’t the first time a celebrity wax statue has gone viral for the wrong reasons. Past examples include figures of Zac Efron, Kendall Jenner and others that drew criticism for looking off-model. Museums typically use reference photos, measurements and artist sculpting, but results vary based on execution and updates over time.

Hart’s post highlights ongoing challenges in capturing likenesses, especially for expressive performers whose energy comes from movement and facial animation rather than static poses. The figure’s stiff posture and facial structure failed to convey Hart’s trademark charisma, leading fans to speculate on whether it was rushed or based on outdated references.

Despite the mockery, the incident underscores Hart’s enduring popularity. His ability to laugh at himself keeps him relatable amid a career spanning stand-up, acting and producing. Recent projects include his HartBeat Productions slate and upcoming comedy specials, maintaining his status as one of Hollywood’s highest-paid comedians.

The viral moment also spotlights social media’s role in amplifying celebrity news. Hart’s direct engagement—posting personally rather than through a publicist—fueled the spread, turning a local museum unveiling into a global conversation.

As of March 19, 2026, neither the Hollywood Wax Museum nor Hart has announced plans for revisions, though his “demand a redo” plea suggests he may push for one. In the meantime, the figure remains on display, likely drawing curious visitors eager to see the “attack” in person.

For Hart, the episode is another chapter in a career built on turning mishaps into punchlines. Whether the museum heeds his call remains to be seen, but the comedian has already won the internet round with his quick-witted response.

LOS ANGELES — Angelina Jolie skipped the 2026 Academy Awards earlier this month, a decision sources close to the actress described as unsurprising given no eligible projects and her shifting priorities away from Hollywood’s spotlight. The Oscar winner, who last attended the ceremony in 2024 for her directorial work, instead focused on personal transitions, including plans to relocate abroad later this year as her youngest children approach adulthood.

Jolie, 50, has been candid about feeling disconnected from the United States in recent interviews, stating she no longer “recognizes” the country due to changes in freedom of expression and social climate. Sources told People magazine in late 2025 that she is “excited” about moving overseas once custody arrangements with ex-husband Brad Pitt allow greater flexibility. Her twins, Knox and Vivienne, turn 18 in July 2026, potentially freeing her from Los Angeles residency requirements tied to the long-running divorce.

The actress listed her historic $25 million Cecil B. DeMille estate in Los Angeles for sale after renovations, with pre-qualified buyers touring the property. Plans call for splitting time between New York—home to her sustainable fashion venture Atelier Jolie—and Europe or Cambodia, where she holds citizenship and has deep humanitarian ties through her work with refugees.

Jolie’s humanitarian efforts remain central. Recent reports noted her visits to conflict zones, though specifics on 2026 activities were limited. Her UNHCR ambassadorship continues to drive advocacy, often drawing her away from entertainment circles.

Professionally, Jolie is in a transitional phase with new projects gaining traction. Her latest film, “Couture,” a fashion-world drama directed by Alice Winocour, was acquired by Vertical for North American theatrical release later in 2026 following its world premiere at TIFF in 2025. Jolie stars as Maxine, a filmmaker facing breast cancer who enters a romance during Paris Fashion Week chaos. The ensemble includes Louis Garrel, Ella Rumpf and newcomer Anyier Anei, exploring themes of women’s resilience, solidarity and shared struggles across cultures and professions.

Rumors of a real-life romance between Jolie and co-star Garrel surfaced after public dinners, but sources close to the actress told TMZ on March 2 that the pair are not dating. “It’s strictly professional,” one insider said, emphasizing her focus on work and family post-divorce.

Jolie has not been in a relationship since finalizing her divorce from Pitt in December 2024 after an eight-year legal battle, according to a source cited by People. “She’s too busy focusing on her work and her six children,” the source said. “She hasn’t had a boyfriend.”

Family dynamics drew attention when eldest son Maddox dropped “Pitt” from his last name in credits for “Couture,” where he contributed to production. The move, reported in late February, fueled speculation about strained ties, with some Pitt associates claiming it reflected Jolie’s influence. Maddox, now in his 20s, has increasingly aligned with his mother’s projects.

The divorce settlement, reached after years of custody, property and winery disputes, has not fully quelled tensions. Brad Pitt is pushing to depose Russian businessman Yuri Shefler regarding dealings related to their French winery, Château Miraval, according to court documents obtained by TMZ on March 17. The ongoing litigation centers on ownership and sales rights, with Pitt seeking clarity on transactions involving the multimillion-dollar asset. Sources described Jolie as “mentally drained” by the protracted fight, which has spanned nearly a decade since their 2016 separation.

Despite personal challenges, Jolie’s career shows momentum. She is reuniting with “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” director Doug Liman for an untitled spy thriller, signaling a return to high-profile acting. Additionally, “Sunny,” an action-thriller directed by Eva Sørhaug and inspired by mafia classics, is in production, marking her first action role in years after projects like “Eternals” and “The Eternals” in 2021.

Atelier Jolie continues to thrive as a platform for ethical fashion, blending Jolie’s advocacy with creative output. The New York-based collective emphasizes sustainability and artisan collaboration, reflecting her shift toward entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors over traditional stardom.

Jolie’s evolution from blockbuster star to multifaceted figure—actress, director, humanitarian and businesswoman—defines her 2026 chapter. Skipping awards season aligns with her preference for privacy and meaningful work amid life changes. As she prepares for potential relocation, upcoming releases like “Couture” and ongoing advocacy suggest she remains influential, even from afar.

With children growing independent and legal battles simmering, Jolie appears poised for a new era prioritizing global perspectives over Hollywood drama.