1. 2010 Finals Game 7 performance, including dagger three-pointer
If I had told you that, in a Game 7 of the NBA Finals, your two star players would go a combine 12-40 from the field, you probably would be cursing at the missed opportunity for the title. For the Lakers, that’s exactly what should have happened. Thankfully for Lakers players and fans alike, MWP did show up for Game 7. His final stat line was impressive for any game – 46 minutes, 20 points, 5 rebounds, 5 steals, 1 assist. Since 1985-86, only three players have had a stat line mirroring MWP’s or better in Finals history.
But it was his last three points that will forever be etched in fan’s memories. With the Lakers clinging to to a 3-point lead and just over a minute left, Bryant was double-teamed at the top of the key and kicked to MWP on the wing. Without hesitation, World Peace hoisted up a contested three. Had it rimmed out, fans would have called for likely called for the enigmatic forward’s head. Instead, the shot fell perfectly through the net, matched with an equally memorable “BANG!” from Mike Breen. In typical MWP fashion, he back-pedaled down court while blowing a kiss to the fans. Only you, Metta. Only you.