Pope of Basketball.

Summary

. The Staples Center was filled with fans eager to see the Lakers play, especially with Kobe Bryant expected to score high in the absence of Yao Ming. Supportive signs for Kobe's potential 70-point game were visible, as fans hoped he would surpass Michael Jordan's career high of 69 points. Kobe's wife, Vanessa, attended the game, reflecting their renewed relationship. The game was not nationally televised due to the opposing team's weakness. Commentators discussed the matchup, noting that Yao Ming's absence was regrettable, and speculated on the defensive capabilities of the Rockets' Mutombo against the Lakers. As the game progressed, Kobe found his rhythm, scoring 19 points by the end of the first quarter, although the Lakers trailed 31 to 37. .

Full content