The setting: On the cusp of another NBA Finals appearance, Bryant made a hanging, double-pump jumper from just inside the three-point line with 34.2 seconds left to give the Lakers a 107-100 lead at Phoenix.
The significance: Bryants shot, which came with the Suns Grant Hill playing him tightly, drew an emphatic Yes! from TNT announcer Marv Albert. Bryant playfully tapped Suns Coach Alvin Gentry on the behind after the play, which wrapped up the 111-103 victory and the series for the Lakers. Said TNTs Doug Collins: You cant defend that. With 1:59 left in the game, Bryant made another incredibly difficult shot, this one over two defenders, for a five-point lead. Bryant finished with 37 points. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)