Forget his 52 point, 11 rebound performance, the best play Kobe Bryant made yesterday was an offensive rebound. What made the play even better was that moment also ended up being one of Jeff Van Gundy’s finest moments as a broadcaster.

Let me explain.

Six seconds left to go in the game. Lamar Odom is about to shoot his second free throw with six seconds left in the game. The Lakers are holding on to a one point lead. Gundy points out that Dallas’ Brandon Bass should not be lined up next to Kobe Bryant. Gundy explains that with his experience Kobe, even while giving up two inches to Bass, could easily get to the rebound if Odom misses.
So of course Odom misses the free throw and Kobe wills his way to the rebound, is fouled and forces that crazy shot by Nowitzki to send the game into overtime.

If Kobe doesn’t get the rebound Dallas has more than enough time to score and win the game. Instead, Kobe ensures the Lakers won’t lose in regulation and Van Gundy proves why he is one of the best announcers in the business. Too bad he will be a head coach again soon.
Just a crazy six second sequence in what was yet another wildly entertaining Western Conference game.

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