8 Most Memorable Kobe Bryant Games

On 6 June 2001, the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers went into game 1 of the Finals against the season MVP, Allen Iverson, and his Philadelphia 76ers. After taking an early lead, LA was shocked by Iverson who led Philly to an overtime upset. Almost single-handedly taking down LA, Iverson finished with 48 points, 6 assists, and 5 steals. No other 76er scored more than 13.

Game 1 would also be Kobe's worst in the finals, as he finished 7 of 22 shooting and 6 turnovers. Embarrassed by Iverson, and the infamous step-over of his teammate Tyronn Lue, Kobe took it on himself to shadow Philly's guard for game 2.

Iverson only put up 23 points, his lowest total for the series. With tons of trash talking, Bryant himself had a much better performance with 31 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Shaquille O'Neal had a monster game as well, with nearly a quadruple-double stat line. It was Kobe who had to hold off the Philly comeback without Shaq for parts of the second half (sitting out with 5 fouls).

Kobe would again lead the Lakers in the 4th quarter of game 3, once Shaq picked up his 6th foul. Los Angeles would take the series 4-1 and went a historic 15-1 through the playoffs. Bryant taking on the defensive assignment to slow down Allen Iverson was key to winning his second championship.

"In the heat of battle...nothing's friendly" ~Kobe