Kobe Bryant is one of the best players to ever play in the NBA. Throughout his career, the future hall of famer has won 5 NBA Championships and broken multiple NBA records. With the black mamba retiring at the end of the season, we look back at some of the top moments of his unbelievable NBA career.
Kobe scores 81 points
On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant scored a career high 81 points against the Toronto Raptors. Kobe broke the Lakers franchise record of 71 points in a single game, held by the great Elgin Baylor and his 81 point display was the second-highest point total in NBA history. The only player in NBA history to score more points than Kobe in an individual game was Wilt Chamberlain, who scored 100 points back in 1962. His remarkable performance would help lead the Lakers to a come from behind victory. At the end of the game, Bryant’s stats were incredible. He made 28 of 46 shots (60.9%), seven of 13 from three-point range (53.8%) and 18 of 20 free throws (90.0%).
Game 4 of the NBA Finals vs Indiana
With the Lakers’ dominant big man, Shaquille O’Neal, fouling out during a crucial time in the game, the Lakers looked to no other than Kobe Bryant to carry them to victory. Let’s just say, Kobe answered the call. He scored 28 points, which would include three crucial overtime baskets that helped prevail the Lakers to a 120-118 victory.
Kobe Earns his first Gold Medal
Aside from winning 5 NBA titles throughout his career, the black mamba won two Olympic Gold Medals as well. In 2008, Bryant played alongside some of the game’s best, which included Lebron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Paul. In the gold medal game, Kobe led Team USA to victory over a talented Spain team. He finished with 20 points and 13 of those came in the final period.
Kobe hits two free throws after tearing his Achilles’ tendon
In 2013, Kobe was at the top of his game, but that all changed after he tore his Achilles’ tendon in a game against the Golden State Warriors. This was a devastating injury, but somehow the future hall of famer was able to stay in the game and knock down his two free throws before leaving the game under his own power. This play showed how much heart and dedication he has to the game of basketball. It will be sad watching him walk away from the game at the end of the season.
For more of Kobe’s top moments, check out this article.