Bryant's observations

Here's some of what Kobe Bryant had to say after the Lakers pulled out a 112-110 victory over the Houston Rockets: "It was good, it was a good game. The bench came out and did a great job. Steve (Blake) hit a couple of huge 3s for us. Shannon (Brown) was extremely active on both ends of the floor. We were a deep team last year, as well. This year we have better chemistry in terms of the pieces fitting better together coming off the bench."

Bryant played 37 minutes, 4 seconds, which he said was not a big test on his surgically-repaired right knee. He also said, "Phil (Jackson) asked me how I felt and I told him I was ready to go, so I knew this morning. I feel good."

Bryant on setting up Blake for the go-ahead 3-pointer: "We talked about getting that exact shot during a timeout. We executed at the right time."

Bryant on receiving his fifth championship ring: 'It's always fun when this night comes. You get a chance to enjoy it and tonight was an even more special one because we all introduced each other. You know the bond we share together."