The current Western Conference champions, the L.A Lakers became the NBA champions this past Sunday after beating the Orlando Magic in game 5 with a score of 99-86.  This was the 15th title for the Lakers franchise, the 10th ring for Coach Phil Jackson and the fourth championship for the MVP of the finals Kobe Bryant and his teammate Derek Fisher.

The Lakers had a turning point this season after struggling during the finals of last year against the Boston Celtics, in where they lost against them in Game 6. However, this season finals turn to be one of the biggest for the Lakers since a more cohesive and a teamwork group achieve the NBA championship.

Since the beginning of the game on Sunday, both teams were hungry to win and they looked really energetic. During the first quarter, the Magic started really strong, showing the Lakers that they would fight on their home-court for the victory, whereas the Lakers were focused on closing the series, but struggled at the beginning, going down in the middle of the quarter by 9 points. However, at the end of the quarter Kobe and the Lakers kept fighting and reduced the difference to just two points, finishing 26-28.

In the second quarter the Lakers kept trailing during the first 7 minutes of the quarter, although a good run of 12-0 by Los Angeles put the score 52-40 and at the end of the first half the Lakers were up by 10 points .

Moreover, during the third quarter the Lakers kept a good lead and their defense looked incredible, giving them a reason to increase their advantage to 15 points at the end of that quarter, with two great three-point shots from Odom. Finally in the last quarter, the Lakers looked so confident in their game, that the Magic got frustrated and couldn’t handle the pressure of how well the Lakers were playing. 

At the end the Lakers closed the game with a final score of 99-86.

After the clock went off, the Lakers players celebrated in the Amway Arena, hugging each other and screaming in excitement for their 2009 title; Phil Jackson looked at his players with such satisfaction and proud in what it was one of the best moments in his coaching career, not only because he had a talented team, but also because he was able to attain his 10th NBA ring, surpassing Celtic’s legend Red Auerbach.

In addition, it has to be mentioned that this accomplishment is not only owed to Kobe Bryant; Odom, Ariza, Fisher and Gasol, also made the difference and played in such an amazing way that there was no doubt that they had the championship in their hands at the end of the game.

After winning his 4th title with the Lakers – and first one without Shaq – Kobe expressed that this championship was more significant for him for several reasons. "I don't have to hear that idiotic criticism anymore," Kobe stated. "That's the biggest thing. I don't have to hear that stuff anymore. I can't believe this moment is here. They won't see us as losers. L.A. is brutal, man. Now when I go to Disney World and Disneyland, I can enjoy the moment.

With this championship on their backs, the Lakers hope to work hard this offseason and during the training camp to repeat the feat of another title next season. Of course, we will have to wait and see if Kobe, Phil and the rest of the team is coming back for next season, but whichever the case may be, we wish the best of lucks for this historical franchise.

About the Author

Ally White is a top senior copy writer on NBA games and sports action for the online sports betting: http://www.instantactionsports.com.  Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety on your site, make sure to leave all links in place and do not modify any of the content.