Just leave it to the hometown hero to give an MVP-worthy performance among the league’s best.
In front of his own Staples Center crowd, Kobe Bryant poured in 34 points to lead the Western Conference’s victory in the 2011 All-Star Game.
Bryant tied the NBA’s record by capturing his fourth All-Star MVP, while shooting 14-of-26 in the process.
“It feels great, being at home here and playing in front of the home crowd,” Bryant said during the trophy presentation. “This will be my last All-Star Game in front of these home fans, so it feels good to do it.”
However, Bryant was much more than just a scorer, also collecting 14 rebounds — including an All-Star record 10 on the offensive glass.
Kevin Durant (34 points) and Lakers teammate Pau Gasol (17 points) helped Bryant fend off a late push by the East, which was led by a 29-point triple-double from LeBron James.
Bryant, who also had three steals, did most of his damage early with 21 points before halftime.
Kobe performances on this day in history: