Kobe Bryant's Legendary 60-Point Finale Still Resonates 10 Years Later

From teammates and opponents to coaches, officials and staff, those who witnessed Bryant's last game remember the Black Mamba's unforgettable farewell performance.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 12:51pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, energetic brushstrokes in neon shades of purple, yellow, and red, capturing the dynamic movement and intensity of Kobe Bryant's final NBA game.Kobe Bryant's legendary 60-point finale encapsulated his unparalleled competitive spirit and cemented his legacy as one of the NBA's all-time greats.Los Angeles Today

On April 13, 2016, Kobe Bryant capped off his illustrious 20-year NBA career with a stunning 60-point performance in his final game as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Utah Jazz 101-96. Despite struggling early, Bryant caught fire in the second half, scoring 17 straight points in the final minutes to lead the Lakers to victory. The emotional night featured tributes, celebrity sightings, and an outpouring of love from the sold-out Staples Center crowd as they witnessed one of the league's all-time greats leave the game in spectacular fashion.

Why it matters

Kobe Bryant's final game was more than just a basketball contest - it was a celebration of one of the NBA's most iconic players and a moment that will be forever etched in the memories of those who were there. The game showcased Bryant's unparalleled competitive spirit and determination, as he willed himself to a vintage performance despite the physical toll of 20 seasons in the league. The event also highlighted the deep connection Bryant had built with Lakers fans over his two decades in Los Angeles, as the crowd showered him with adulation throughout the night.

The details

Bryant struggled early, missing his first five shots, but found his rhythm in the second quarter and took over in the second half. He scored 15 points in the first quarter, 7 in the second, 15 in the third, and a remarkable 23 in the fourth to finish with 60 points on 22-of-50 shooting. Bryant's teammates made it clear their sole focus was to get him the ball and let him take over, with coach Byron Scott instructing them to "get the hell out of the way" so Bryant could work. The game featured a pregame ceremony honoring Bryant's career, as well as celebrity sightings from the likes of Jack Nicholson, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg.

  • Bryant played the entire first quarter, scoring 15 points on 5-of-13 shooting.
  • Bryant returned in the second quarter and had 7 points on 2-of-7 shooting.
  • Bryant scored 15 points in the third quarter, pushing his minute total to 30 and points to 37.
  • Bryant played the entire second half for a season-high 42 minutes, the most he had played since November 2014.
  • Bryant scored the Lakers' final 17 points in the last 1:12 of the game to finish with 60 points.

The players

Kobe Bryant

A 20-year NBA veteran and 5-time champion who capped off his illustrious career with a 60-point performance in his final game.

Jordan Clarkson

A Lakers guard who was on the receiving end of Kobe Bryant's final assist of his career.

Julius Randle

A Lakers forward who played 33 minutes in Bryant's final game and embraced him at the end.

Larry Nance Jr.

A Lakers forward who was tasked with getting Kobe the ball and setting screens to get him shots in his final game.

Joe Ingles

A Jazz forward who was on the opposing team and marveled at Bryant's performance in his final game.

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What they’re saying

“When Kobe would say things like that, you knew something special was going to happen.”

— Stu Lantz, Lakers color analyst

“You could see him willing himself. Because we had seen the bumps and bruises and aches and pains he had gone through all year to get to that point.”

— Larry Nance Jr., Lakers forward

“Some of the shots he was making, it didn't f---ing matter if we sent five people to him, he was going to make some of those shots.”

— Joe Ingles, Jazz forward

“I have no idea.”

— Kobe Bryant

“Mamba out.”

— Kobe Bryant

What’s next

The Lakers will hold a special 10-year anniversary celebration of Kobe Bryant's final game on April 13, 2026, featuring appearances from many of his former teammates and opponents.

The takeaway

Kobe Bryant's 60-point masterpiece in his final NBA game transcended basketball and became a moment that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. His sheer determination and competitive spirit, even at the end of his illustrious career, left an indelible mark on the sport and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever step on the court.