If It’s a Longshot, Kobe Will Take It

Against the 76ers last week, Phil Jackson designed the last play in which Kobe Bryant was supposed to penetrate toward the basket and take a close shot or pass to Smush Parker if his defender doubled up on Kobe. Instead, Kobe freelanced by taking an admittedly off-balance, long-range jumper after already having missed 19 shots.

Why, it almost makes me think the kid is uncoachable.

RICHARD RAFFALOW

Valley Glen