My parents are my backbone. Still are. They're the only group that will support you if you score zero or you score 40.

In a game against the Knicks on February 2 2009 Bryant scored 61 points setting a record for the most points scored at Madison Square Garden. 6 points per game and 4. The Lakers defeated the Spurs in 5 games sending themselves to the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics.

In 2003 Bryant was accused of sexual assault after having sex with a hotel employee in Colorado. As a rookie Bryant earned himself a reputation as a high-flyer and a fan favorite by winning the 1997 Slam Dunk Contest. He led the NBA in scoring during the 2005–06 and 2006–07 seasons setting numerous scoring records in the process.