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Kobe Bryant: 50 Greatest Moments of Black Mamba’s Career

By Maxwell Ogden

Jan 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) warms up before the game against the Sacramento Kings at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) warms up before the game against the Sacramento Kings at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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47. First 20-Point Game

Kobe Bryant’s scoring escapades are the stuff of legend. He’s achieved just about everything there is to achieve in that regard, and that’s exactly what makes this such a significant moment in his illustrious career.

On January 3, 1997, in his 25th career NBA game, Bryant eclipsed 20 points for the first time.

With Shaquille O’Neal absent and Eddie Jones struggling, Bryant took over against the Sacramento Kings. He scored 21 points in 22 minutes, shooting 6-of-10 from the field and 9-of-10 at the free throw line.

Behind his and Elden Campbell’s efforts, the Lakers improved to 24-9 with a 100-93 home victory.

There have been many 20-point games since this, but none compare to Bryant’s performance against the Kings. It was his first true breakout performance, and it provided fans of the Association with a glimpse of what was soon to come.

The 360 dunk was the icing on the cake.

Next: It Didn't Take Long

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