The sequence played out in what’s encapsulated Kobe Bryant’s career. The clock ticked down as his team trailed by one. The ball remained in his hands. And, of course, Bryant buried the game-winning jumper.
This game didn’t take place at Staples Center and Bryant wasn’t even wearing a Lakers uniform. Instead, this play that he’s performed countless of other times happened at Colonel Leon H. Washington Park where Bryant played in a Drew League pick-up game during the 2011 NBA lockout.
With the Drew League celebrating its 40th anniversary this summer, officials still have vivid memories of Bryant’s appearance and ultimate game winner.
“It was the top moment,” Drew League commissioner Oris “Dino” Smiley said. “You couldn’t script it. You got a guy to come in on a Tuesday when it was supposed to be hush hush. Word got out. He packs the place. He comes, doesn’t disappoint and gives you every signature move he had. How can you set up with 16 seconds on the game clock, he gets the ball in a tie game and he hits the game winner? He got him down there to the elbow. Did the fadeway and hit it with his arms up, the crowd hits him around the waist. It’s pandemonium.”
Below are some of the reflections Drew League officials and players have on that moment:
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