Kobe Bryant returned to the court for the first time since tearing his Achilles tendon last season, as the Lakers took on the the Toronto Raptors at Staples Center. Bryant announced his return via his Facebook page on Friday and created a buzz around the Lakers 20th game of the season.
The 35-year-old was injured last April in a regular season game against the Golden State Warriors and has been rehabbing all off-season to get back into action. Many believed he would not make his return until Christmas Day or later, but Bryant returned just less than eight months after the injury.
He was placed in the starting lineup at shooting guard, alongside Steve Blake, Wesley Johnson, Robert Sacre and Pau Gasol.
Check out the highlights from Kobe Bryant’s return below:
Lakers Pre-Game Intro
Bryant’s First Assist
a;lksdhgfaksjdhgskadjgsadj WHAT A PASS!!!!!!!!!! KOBEEEEEEEEE
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) December 9, 2013
Bryant Finds Pau For Two
Kobe keeps the passing trend going. Connects with Pau for the bucket. #Lakers
— Ryan Ward (@Lakers_Examiner) December 9, 2013
Bryant’s First Rebound
Bryant’s First Points Via Free Throw
Kobe scores his first point since April with a free throw, NBA chants surround Staples.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 9, 2013
Bryant’s First Jumper
Kobe knocks down his signature step-back jumper. Crowd sure enjoyed that. 51-47, Raptors.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 9, 2013
Bryant’s Left-Handed Finish
Bryant To Meeks For The Fast Break Dunk
