With the and-one that led to LeBron James passing Kobe Bryant for third all-time in postseason points, what we witnessed was a moment where a microcosm of James’ career could be found in a history-changing bucket.
As LeBron went coast-to-coast, blowing past Monta Ellis and Thaddeus Young on the way down the lane, he was bumped in mid-air by Kevin Seraphin. He used his right hand to get a layup off from the left side.
We heard the whistle. James stepped to the line. He sunk the free throw.
In that moment, James passed Bryant to be third all-time in playoff points in 19 fewer games.