One interesting similarity between Lakers star Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan is their dedication to winning. Regardless of the challenging circumstances presented to them, these two never shied away from an opportunity to chase victory. While Jordan is popularly known for his flu game, the late legend Kobe Bryant is also known for his terrific performance to lead the Lakers to win a championship in the 2000s. 

Recently, former NBA player Mark Jackson, in his show, discussed Bryant’s role in the Lakers’ 2000 championship. During the conversation, Jackson praised Bryant, describing how despite being injured, the 5x champion took over the game to change their fate and was able to do so in the most stunning fashion. “Shaq fouls out we go into overtime and Kobe Bryant basically says ‘Get me the basketball get out my way’ and takes over the game I remember him scoring two or three straight on Reggie Miller and I say Reg I got him,” said Jackson.

The Lakers were up against power player Reggie Miller and the Pacers. While talking about the game, he also described his New York mindset which encouraged him to face Bryant, and how he tried to defeat him but was unsuccessful.

“I’m not thinking I’m going to stop him I’m thinking I’mma hammer him. Dude makes a quick crossover through the legs top of the key elevate did it so quick I got no chance to even reach and hit him elevates knocks down the jumper I’m like Reg you got him I got nothing for you man.”

The absence of former Lakers player Shaquille O’Neal in the game intensified the situation to its utmost critical point.

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Kobe Bryant’s clutch performance drove Lakers to victory in overtime

As described by Jackson, the Big Man of the league was already fouled out with 2:33 minutes in the clock. Fans had already lost their hope until Bryant realized that it was time for him to get back on the court. It was also a big opportunity for him to show his prowess and ability to lead the Lakers without his former teammate O’Neal. 

During the first half of the 2000 finals Game 2, Bryant was sidelined for injuring his ankle. The champ not only missed the entire game, but he also ended up missing Game 3 as well. But the injury was not enough to stop Bryant.

The 5x NBA champ hit with two jump shots to secure the Los Angeles Lakers‘ position against the Pacers. Scoring 8 points in overtime with shooting 4-5 from the field, Bryant seamlessly led the Lakers to a 120-118 victory against the Pacers. What are your thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments section below.

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