Los Angeles Lakers: Top 8 Kobe Bryant moments

4. Leading the Lakers over the Celtics in Game 7 of the 2010 NBA Finals

The Lakers had won the 15th title in the franchise’s history after beating Orlando in 2009, but the team was hungrier than ever when they matched up with their rival Boston Celtics 2010 for a chance at revenge after what happened in 2008.

From the outset of the game, it was clear that Kobe was forcing shots and not hitting the miraculous off-balance shots that fans were used to seeing. Bryant would shoot a dreadful 6-of-24 from the field and uncharacteristically miss four of his 15 free throw attempts.

However, Kobe made up for his poor shooting night by showing the heart and drive to will the Lakers to victory. With L.A. ahead by three with one minute to play, Kobe threw a bullet pass to Ron Artest, who had been struggling with his shot all series. Artest would hesitate but then shoot and knock down the 3 to put the Lakers ahead by six and ice the game.

Kobe showed his determination as he and Pau Gasol combined for 33 total rebounds and the Lakers out-rebounded Boston by 13 in that game. Bryant’s continued hustle despite his poor shooting shows his commitment to winning any way necessary as the Lakers won their 16th title and Kobe earned his second Finals MVP.