Kobe Bryant posted a picture on his Instragram account, shooting a free throw Sunday at the Lakers’ practice facility in El Segundo.
The last time he stepped to the free throw line, Kobe Bryant hobbled on one foot. Unknown to some of the Lakers fans chanting “M-V-P,” Bryant just suffered a torn left Achilles tendon. Instead of getting carted off the floor, however, Bryant went to the line, nailed two free throws and then limped off the court to a standing ovation.
Just over two months later, Bryant’s back at the line. He posted a picture on Instagram where he began the shooting portion of his rehabilitation process on Sunday at the Lakers’ practice facility in El Segundo. And according to Lakers strength and conditioning coach Tim DiFrancesco, the results are what you’d expect from the Black Mamba.
@kobebryant drained a free throw after another monster a.m. workout! Check his instagram 4 proof! #Kobe #LakersWorkMamba ps It was all net!
— Tim DiFrancesco (@tdathletesedge) June 30, 2013
Bryant has estimated in recent weeks he will return fully healthy by November or December, making it possible he would miss the first month of the 2012-13 season, if not more. There are fair questions on to what degree Bryant will adjust his game to remain effective enough when he displayed superior athleticism and conditioning last season. But throughout this process, Bryant has made linear progress. And on Sunday, Bryant reached a benchmark significant both for his rehab and the symbolism behind his injury.
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