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Great Playoff Moments, Day 1: Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, and L.A. Lakers Escape The ‘Jail Blazers’April 19 08  Great Playoff Moments, Day 1: Lakers-Blazers, game seven 2000 Western Conference Finals.It was only eight years ago, but it feels longer. Back then, Shaquille O’Neal ran Staples Center, the ‘Jail Blazers were in Corporal Stern’s bad books, and Limp Bizkit dominated airwaves. The Lakers were struggling under the weight of expectations, having underachieved in past seasons. The situation was again looking bleak for the newly formed O’Neal- Kobe Bryant-Coach Jackson trio. Heading into the fourth quarter in the deciding game seven, they were down double figures to a wily and deep Portland squad. Somehow, the Lakers mounted a comeback for the ages and reversed a sixteen-point deficit to advance through to the league finals. The result was a turning point in both club’s history. After finally winning the west, the purple-and-gold then captured three consecutive NBA Titles, while the Blazers self-destructed, gaining notoriety for technical fouls, arrest warrants, and practice donnybrooks. Without further ado, game seven of the 2000 Western Conference between the Lakers and Blazers. As always, enjoy the show, and get at us in the comment box below with your thoughts.
Come back to HoopsVibe during the playoffs where we’ll countdown more great post-season moments. Image courtesy of King of Boggle. |
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