The Lakers have climbed up the mountain and can see the summit.
After trailing for most of the game, the Lakers take a 64-63 lead into the fourth quarter as they attempt to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2004.
After Duncan missed a pair of free throws with San Antonio ahead, 56-48, the Lakers went on an 8-2 run capped by Pau Gasol’s dunk off a Bryant feed to make it 58-56.
Kobe Bryant made a 3-pointer and a jumper to put the Lakers up, 61-60, before San Antonio got the lead back.
Vladimir Radmanovic sank a 3-pointer to put them ahead by one.
Bryant has a game-high 22 points. Gasol is off offensively but has 14 rebounds.
–Curtis Zupke, The Orange County Register
