Kobe Bryant Career in 2009 (Part 2)

As the Lakers rolled toward their date with destiny, Kobe took his game to a new level. He became the league’s finest shot-maker, hitting clutch baskets off-balance, in traffic, and with defenders hanging all over him. Even his critics had to admit that he was now every bit as good as Michael Jordan at hitting the tough buckets. Among his six game-winners in 2009–10 was an unforgettable shot to cap a comeback against the Celtics on their home court. Although Boston was slowed by age and injuries, many traditionalists wanted another Celtics–Lakers Final, LeBron be damned. They would get their wish.

Kobe finished the regular season by upping his scoring, rebounding and assists from the year before. His 27.0 points per game was fourth in the league—3.1 behind the NBA’s precocious scoring leader, Kevin Durant. Once again, he was voted to the All-NBA First team and the All-Defensive First Team.

Kobe was sensational in the conference finals against the Phoenix Suns. He hit one outrageous shot after another. The two teams split the first four games, before the Lakers scored a 103–101 win in Phoenix. Kobe, who missed a triple-double by one assist, tried to break a 101–101 tie with a fadeaway three-pointer from the corner, but his shot was short. Artest outmuscled the Suns for the ball and scored the winning layup. He and Kobe hugged when the final buzzer sounded.

The final two games in LA, were defensive battles. The Lakers beat the Celtics handily in Game 6 to knot the series. Kobe led all players with 26 points. Game 7 was a different matter. Kobe was ice cold most of the game, often finding himself double-teamed. He responded by hitting the glass with fierce determination. Kobe pulled down 15 rebounds.

In Kobe, the Lakers have a championship-caliber player with an impressive résumé and proven track record. Having led LAto two championships without another superstar at his side, he did what many considered un-doable. Can Kobe and the Lakers keep adding to their trophy case? As always, this is likely to be the biggest story in basketball.