Kobe Bryant Earns 2002 All-Star MVP in Homecoming to Philadelphia
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On February 10, 2002, Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant collected the NBA All-Star Game’s Most Valuable Player award after leading the Western Conference to a 135-120 victory at the First Union Center in Philadelphia.
The honor came during Bryant’s third straight All-Star appearance and carried extra significance because the game was staged in his hometown. Before joining the Lakers, Bryant built his reputation just outside the city at Lower Merion High School.
Star-studded lineups
Western Conference coach Don Nelson started Bryant alongside Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Chris Webber and Steve Francis. The bench featured Dirk Nowitzki, Steve Nash, Gary Payton, Elton Brand, Peja Stojakovic and Wally Szczerbiak.
The East countered with hometown favorite Allen Iverson, Dikembe Mutombo, Michael Jordan, Jason Kidd and Antoine Walker. Reserves included Ray Allen, Tracy McGrady, Paul Pierce, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Jermaine O’Neal, Alonzo Mourning and Baron Davis.
Stat line seals the trophy
Bryant produced a game-high 31 points on 12-of-25 shooting, added five rebounds and five assists, and went 7-for-7 at the free-throw line. His performance marked the first 30-point outing in an All-Star Game since Jordan scored 30 in 1993.
Mixed reception from local crowd
Despite the memorable night, Bryant faced consistent boos from Philadelphia fans still frustrated by the Lakers’ 2001 NBA Finals win over the 76ers. After the game, he acknowledged that the reaction bothered him but said he used it as motivation in front of family and friends.
The MVP trophy was the first of four All-Star Game MVP awards Bryant would earn during his 20-year career.
Source: Lakers Nation
