January 22nd, 2006.

Kobe Bryant puts up 81 points in a comeback win over the Toronto Raptors at the Staples Center.

I remember watching the highlights on TV the next morning, with the late, great Stuart Scott taking us through the reel in a way that only he could. Give this clip a watch if you have a few minutes:

Kobe’s final stat line from that night:


28-46, 7-13 from three, 81 points, six rebounds, two assists, 18-20 from the foul line.

Trivia question –

Who scored the second most points for the Lakers in that game?

Answer –

Smush Parker, with 13 on 5-11 shooting.