Feb. 23, 2010
31 years, 184 days
With 10 seconds left, Kobe Bryant’s game-tying layup was swatted away by Rudy Gay. So rather than try to knot it up again, Bryant simply cashed in a game-winning 3-pointer.
The reigning NBA Finals MVP struck from 26 feet away and the clock at 4.3 seconds to capture a 99-98 victory in Memphis.
“Only in Hollywood, I guess,” Bryant told reporters. “It’s fun. It’s my responsibility to make plays down the stretch. I enjoy it.”
Bryant dropped 32 points by shooting 13-of-19 after missing the Lakers’ previous five games due to an ankle injury.
He helped the Lakers to a 27-16 lead after the first quarter, but Memphis roared back by outscoring the Lakers in the middle periods, 65-49.
But Bryant saved his best for last, providing all of the Lakers’ last nine points, including the game-winner.
“Nobody in the world is shocked anymore by what Kobe Bryant does and what he brings to the team,” said Pau Gasol, who had 22 points and 13 rebounds.
Kobe performances on this day in history: