Iverson sparks Pistons to 106-95 win over Lakers

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Allen Iverson scored 25 points to propel the Detroit Pistons to a 106-95 road win over the previously unbeaten Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.

Iverson, who joined the Pistons from Denver last week, led five Detroit players in double-figure scoring as Detroit improved to 7-2, while the Lakers slipped to 7-1.

"When I came (to Detroit) they said they wanted me to play the way I have throughout my career, but it was natural to just try to fit in," Iverson told reporters.

"They want me to be more aggressive, and that's something I'll do if it helps us win."

The Pistons got 25 points and 15 rebounds from Rasheed Wallace along with 18 points from Tayshaun Prince.

Kobe Bryant, the NBA's most valuable player last season, scored 12 of his game-high 29 points in a frantic fourth-quarter charge by the Lakers, who were unable to cut Detroit's lead to single digits.

The Lakers had been in unstoppable form, beating opponents by an average of 18 points per game.

But the Pistons jumped on Los Angeles from the outset and led virtually the entire game.

"They were going to lose eventually," said Iverson. "I didn't think they were going to win all 82 games."

Iverson continually penetrated the Lakers defense, often dishing to open team mates, helping Detroit take a 77-62 lead through three quarters.

Pistons center Kwame Brown had a strong effort in returning to Los Angeles for the first time since being traded from Lakers midway through last season.

He finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds, playing tough defense on Lakers power forward Pau Gasol, the Spaniard held to 15 points and 10 boards.

(Reporting by Jahmal Corner; Editing by Alastair Himmer)