Lakers vs Mavericks 3/2/08, 52 for Kobe

This game was a thriller. Although the Los Angeles Lakers did not play their best basketball they were able to escape with a win in overtime behind a 52 point outburst from Mr. Franchise, the Black Mamba otherwise known as Kobe Bryant.
The game started off fast for Dallas who took a 7-0 lead after just a couple of minutes into the first quarter. But the Lakers gathered themselves and behind an outstanding first quarter from Pau Gasol and Luke Walton they were able to finish the quarter ahead by 6 with a score of 29-23. Pau had 12 points after the first quarter while Luke made several key hustle plays.
The second quarter belonged to the visitors as they outscored LA by 3 to cut the lead to 3. The score at the half was LA 50 and Dallas 47. The Lakers actually came out lucky to be ahead by three as Dallas made a double pump 3 pointer at end the half from half court but the shot was released a split second too late and the basket bas waved off.
The 3rd and pivotal quarter belonged to Dallas as well as they continued to chip away at the lead and finally ending the quarter with a 3 point lead. Dallas just wouldn't go away in this one.. they wanted the W and was doing everything in their power to get it. To the point that they were playing like it was a football game (really aggressive). We were in LA and I figured that we had home court advantage.. but I guess I was wrong. There was alot of heated exchanges out there and I really thought that a fight was going to break out. Eric Dampier fouled Kobe on a play that should have been a flagrant but wasn't called as such. But what can you do, the refs will call the game as they see it I guess.. But I hope they get their eyes checked before the next game.
The fourth quarter was an exciting one to watch. I was on my feet for the last six minutes of the game. Mr. Bryant took over the game for the Lakers as he scored 30 points in the 4th quarter and overtime. On the other side of the coin, Dirk played like the all star he is. There were several key plays made down the stretch by several key players. With 6 seconds remaining Lamar missed 2 vital free throws but Kobe was able to grab the offensive rebound and get fouled. He made the two free throws which gave the Lakers a 3 point lead with seconds remaining. I was feeling good a the time, but Dallas was able to answer as Dirk quieted the crowd with a 3 pointer well beyond the arc to bring the game to Overtime.
In overtime the Lakers got off to a quick start from a 3 pointer by Sasha and never trailed in OT. Dirk did get another chance to bring the game into a 2nd OT but failed to my delight.
The final score in this thriller was 108-104. Kobe had a season high 52 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists, while Pau added 17 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals and 2 key blocks.
The Lakers are on top of the west again @ 42-18 but only 1/2 game above San Antonio. Next up is Sacramento on Tuesday. Lets start another streak guys..