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Bryant Scores 65 to End Lakers Losing Streak

It took a season high points total from Kobe Bryant to ends a career worst losing streak for Coach Phil Jackson. A seven game losing streak by the Los Angeles Lakers, who have fallen to 33-32 record and the seventh seed in the Western Conference before the game, ended on Friday with a 116-111 overtime victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Taking charge and leading the way to the win was Bryant with 65 points, nine of them in the extra period, on 23-39 shooting, including 8-12 from long range.

It was Bryant?s second highest scoring game of his career, after his 81 point performance last year. It was his third career game with 60 or more points, along with a 63 point game from last year as well. Earlier in the season, during previous losing streaks, Bryant has commented on his leadership role on the team. After Friday night?s game, Bryant repeated his mantra, saying ?[I]t`s my job as a leader to kind of read what we need as a team. And sometimes, me taking over games like this instills confidence in us all.?

The scoring champ of last season is second in the league this season in points per game average, behind Carmelo Anthony. If he repeats his scoring title this year is beside the point, Bryant acknowledges. The Lakers are to be tested in the playoffs, as they are scheduled to meet, according to the conference standing with about 20 games remaining in the regular season, to face the Phoenix Suns. Last year they fell to the Suns in seven games for a second round ouster of the playoffs.