Kobe Bryant: The Dunk That Changed the 2011 NBA Playoffs

Through one quarter in Game 5 of the Los Angeles Lakers vs. New Orleans Hornets first-round NBA playoff series, nothing looked good for the defending champs.

The Lakers were supposed to sweep, but instead the series was tied and they trailed the Hornets. New Orleans had lost All-Star forward David West, but still seemed to be outplaying LA, and was even shooting 80 percent from the field in Game 5. 

And worst of all, Kobe Bryant was injured, playing timidly and mostly sitting on the bench. 

Then it happened.

As if we were watching a YouTube highlight reel of Kobe's early years, the twice-defending Finals MVP took a casual pass from Pau Gasol, blasted through the lane ...

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