In perhaps the Lakers’ most complete game during Kobe Bryant’s rookie season, the teenager came off the bench to complement his veteran teammates’ strong effort.
Bryant racked up 26 points off the bench to assist Los Angeles in taking down Portland 122-115.
Meanwhile, Eddie Jones (28 points), Nick Van Exel (23 points, 11 assists) and Shaquille O’Neal (21 points, 10 rebounds) helped L.A. shoot 55.1 percent from the field.
Bryant shot 6-of-10 from the field and hit all 13 free throw attempts to help combat seven Trail Blazers in double figures.
The first-year Laker also collected four rebounds, four assists and three steals, as the Lakers rolled by taking a 16-point lead by halftime.
Kobe performances on this day in history:
