Kobe Bryant, Champion: NBA Finals 2002 (Los Angeles Lakers vs. New Jersey Nets)
The term "three-peat" was first used in sports by Pat Riley, who coached the Los Angeles Lakers during their attempt to win a third consecutive championship in the 1988-1989 season. They came up short that year, losing in the NBA Finals to the Detroit Pistons (who would be attempting the three-straight feat two seasons later).
However, Riley's dream was not realized by a team until the 1992-1993 season, when the Chicago Bulls won their third straight. The Bulls repeated this accomplishment in the 1997-1998 season.
The common factor between the two Chicago three-peats had been Phil Jackson coaching great players. That scenario seemed to be playing out again in the 2001-2002 season, with the L.A. Lakers attempting to win a third consecutive title.
Kobe Bryant's 2002 season would be among the more efficient of his career. Continuing the trend set the season before, Bryant and teammate Shaquille O'Neal were equally effective on offense, and Bryant's perimeter defense was among the best in the NBA.
A 58-24 regular season record was ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Joel Spickerman
Kobe Bryant: A Look Back at His Third NBA Championship
June 22nd, 2010 by Joel Spickerman Leave a reply »
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