One of the most memorable games in Los Angeles Lakers history is Game 7 of the 2000 Western Conference Finals against the Portland Trail Blazers. Down 15 points with 10 minutes to go, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant led the Lakers on a run that would give L.A. the series win, and eventually the championship to go with it.
Fans — and many involved with the Lakers at that time — call that game the turning point for a franchise that had been unable to get over the hump, and the start a dynasty. Coming back from 15 minutes in the fourth quarter, especially in an era that was known for its slow pace, is no easy task.