During his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe Bryant has had some epic battles with the Phoenix Suns in the playoffs. In the four matchups, Bryant won two of them, but also gave up a 3-1 series lead in the 2006 NBA playoffs.
In his final game against the franchise, Bryant had 17 points, three rebounds and two assists in what appeared to be a home game in Phoenix.
Following the loss, Bryant discussed the love-hate relationship he had with the Suns during the 2006 and 2007 playoffs according to Baxter Holmes of ESPN:
“Yes, they stopped me from getting a championship — twice,” he said.