Kobe Bryant Played Through Sickness Against Spurs On Friday Night
The defending champion Spurs beat the Los Angeles Lakers 93-80 on Friday night at Staples Center. Kobe Bryant, who has led the league in scoring thus far with 27.5 points per game, finished with 15 points but only on 1-of-14 shooting from the field (he went to the free throw line). His field goal percentage was 7.1.
Bryant played 36 minutes on Friday night, but Lakers coach Byron Scott also confirmed that Kobe was playing sick.
Lakers coach Byron Scott revealed that the 36-year-old Bryant had played 36 minutes while sick. Bryant has played ill many times before, and he had willed his body to overcome on those nights, to still put up big numbers.
Often, Bryant stands as he answers questions at his locker, but this time he headed for the black swivel chair that sits in front of it. He sank into it, letting out a deep breath. He leaned forward, his arms resting on his knees, looking worn. He stared down at the floor, as if he were too fatigued to even lift his head.
From Bryant,
Kobe Bryant admitted his mortality.
“I didn’t feel too good,” he began, “but I’m used to playing through that.
“It’s tough.
“Tonight was one of those nights where it makes me really remember the challenge of being 36 and being 19 years in.
“And the body just won’t respond.
“And you’re sick.”
“And you’re used to trying to fight through those things.
“And it just helps me really remember what I’m facing.
“It’s tough,” he repeated.
When asked if he’d be able to play against the Warriors on Sunday,
Honestly, I don’t know. This is the first I’ve faced this type of challenge in my career. Honestly I don’t know.
Kobe is defying enough odds with his numbers thus far, but the obstacle of physical sickness clearly isn’t something he can overcome now in his 19th NBA season.