The Lakers were the reigning NBA champions and on a quest to win a second. With 26 games remaining, the Lakers were looking to finish strong. Bryant had missed five games due to an ankle injury, but he would be making his return to the court when the Lakers visited the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies has lost four consecutive home games, but they played the Lakers close though out the game. With less than three minutes left in the game the Grizzlies were clinging to a 95-90 lead, but Bryant was not going to go down without a fight.
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With 18 seconds left in the game, O.J. Mayo had an opportunity to seal the deal by making two free throws, but missed them both. The Lakers had an opportunity to send the game to overtime or go for the win. With about 8 seconds left, Bryant received an initial screen by Metta World Peace then Pau Gasol provided the second screen which would allow Bryant to get an open look from the three point line.
With ice water in his veins, Bryant would sink the three and give the Lakers a one point lead with 04.3 seconds left in the game. Mayo had an opportunity to redeem himself in the final seconds, but missed a jumper from the top of the key and the Lakers won 99-98.
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Pau Gasol Expects Kobe Bryant To Remain Positive Even IF Out For Season
