Juan Carlos Navarro scored 25 points to help Barcelona beat the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers 92-88 in an exhibition on Thursday.

Spanish center Pau Gasol led the Lakers with 24 points, but had only one field goal in the second half. His homecoming was spoiled by the Euroleague champion in a game that lived up to the billing of an informal intercontinental showdown.

"You always want to win, but it was an emotional game," Gasol said. "The fans enjoyed it, and the atmosphere was spectacular. We lost, but when your friends win you have to be happy for them."