TORONTO – Russell Westbrook extended his arms and waved his hands, urging the crowd to get loud.
Louder.
Come on. Louder.
With 1:06 remaining in Kobe Bryant’s final All-Star Game, Anthony Davis checked in and Bryant stepped off the NBA’s biggest stage as the Western Conference All-Stars defeated the East’s contingent 196-173 as both teams exceeded the previous record of 163 points.
Bryant pounded his fist against his chest, and lifted an arm in gratitude to the crowd that roared his name. He embraced the players on the floor, and made his way to the bench, where he continued to distribute hugs.