Kobe Bryant: 81 Point Game Box Score | When Did He Score 81 Points

On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant delivered one of the most iconic individual performances in NBA history when he dropped 81 points in a regular-season victory over the Toronto Raptors. This game remains the second-highest scoring single-game performance in NBA history, behind only Wilt Chamberlain’s legendary 100-point night in 1962.

Bryant’s masterclass wasn’t just about scoring — it was a complete demonstration of offensive genius, stamina, versatility, and sheer will. In this article, we break down the full box score, the key moments, how he scored his points, and the lasting legacy of that unforgettable night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Who Was Kobe Bryant? A Brief Overview

Before we dive deep into the 81-point box score, it helps to know why Kobe Bryant’s career was primed for such a historic performance.

Kobe Bryant, known as the “Black Mamba,” was a legendary shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1996 to 2016. A five-time NBA champion, 18-time All-Star, and one of the greatest players in league history, Bryant’s career was defined by his relentless work ethic and elite scoring ability.

Despite all his accolades — championships, All-Star appearances, and scoring titles — the 81-point game stands out as his signature single-game achievement.

When Did Kobe Score 81 Points?

The 81-point masterpiece occurred on January 22, 2006, in a regular-season matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Toronto Raptors at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

The Lakers would go on to win 122–104, but what the world remembers most from that night is Kobe’s 81 points — a total that catapulted him into basketball immortality.

Kobe Bryant 81 Point Game Box Score (Stat Line)

Here is the official statistical breakdown of Kobe’s historic performance:

This box score isn’t just about a high point total — it paints the picture of dominance and efficiency rarely seen in NBA history.

Breakdown: How Kobe Scored His 81 Points

Bryant’s scoring that night was remarkable not just for its volume, but for its variety:

2-Point Field Goals

Kobe consistently attacked the basket, making tough mid-range jumpers and tough drives to the rim. His 28 field goals showed elite shot selection combined with aggressive offensive weaving.

3-Point Shooting

Going 7-for-13 from beyond the arc (about 54%), Kobe showed range and accuracy — not just volume scoring. Long-range shooting was a key part of the point barrage.

Free Throws

Kobe also got to the line frequently — and capitalized with remarkable consistency: 18-of-20 from the free-throw line.

His ability to attack the defense, draw fouls, and convert from the line kept the points flowing all night.

Scoring Splits and Game Flow

Understanding how Kobe got hot can be seen through his scoring splits:

First Half

The game began relatively even, but Kobe wasn’t yet in full scoring mode. The Raptors led at halftime, forcing Bryant to raise his offensive intensity.

Second Half Explosion

The Lakers trailed by as many as 18 points in the third quarter, but Kobe ignited a comeback:

• 3rd Quarter: 27 points

• 4th Quarter: 28 points

That’s a combined 55 points in one half, further cementing the historical weight of his performance.

Why This Performance Was Legendary

There are many incredible single-game scoring efforts in NBA history, but Kobe’s 81 points stand apart for several reasons:

1. Second-Highest Total Ever

Only Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game in 1962 surpasses Kobe’s 81 points.

2. Modern Era Difficulty

Chamberlain’s total was in a very different era of basketball — no three-point line, faster pace of play, and different defensive rules. Kobe’s 81 came in the modern NBA, with disciplined defenses and tactical adjustments.

3. Team Victory

Kobe’s scoring was integral to a 122-104 Lakers win, not a stat sheet padding loss.

4. Variety of Scoring

Few games have seen such balanced scoring — long shots, mid-range jumpers, drives, free throws — all converting at elite efficiency.

Full Statistical Context

Here’s a snapshot of Kobe’s contributions beyond points:

• Rebounds: 6

• Assists: 2

• Steals: 3

• Blocks: 1

• Plus/Minus: +25

• Minutes: 42

These numbers show that while Kobe’s scoring stole the spotlight, he contributed across the board.

Quotes After the Game

Kobe was famously humble about the scoring explosion. Reflecting on the night, he said:

“It’s hard to talk. Even in my dreams, I never imagined this. It’s just one of those nights where anything can happen…”

Legacy of the 81-Point Game

Even today, the significance of Kobe’s 81-point night reverberates across basketball culture and sports history:

Celebrated Anniversary

On the 20th anniversary of the game, fans, players, and brands worldwide commemorated the moment — including tributes from Kobe’s family and commemorative sneaker releases.

Inspiration to Players

Kobe’s 81 points remain a benchmark for offensive excellence. Countless players cite the performance as motivation for their own scoring aspirations.

Cultural Impact

From highlights to documentaries, and fan debates online, the 81-point performance has become woven into the fabric of NBA lore.

Comparison With Other Great Scoring Nights

Although Wilt’s 100 still stands alone at the top, Kobe’s game is the benchmark for modern NBA scoring. A few other legendary games include:

• David Robinson — 71 points

• Elgin Baylor — 71 points

• Michael Jordan — 69 points

But none have matched Kobe’s efficiency and all-around scoring variety in one night.

Kobe Bryant 81 Point Game Complete Box Score (Snapshot)

Here’s the compact box score from StatMuse showing Kobe’s performance at a glance:

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: When did Kobe Bryant score 81 points?

A: Kobe scored 81 points on January 22, 2006 against the Toronto Raptors at the Staples Center.

Q: Is 81 points the most anyone has ever scored in an NBA game?

A: No. Wilt Chamberlain holds the record with 100 points scored in 1962. Kobe’s 81 is the second-highest.

Q: What was Kobe’s box score in that game?

A: Kobe went 28-of-46 from the field, 7-of-13 on three-pointers, and 18-of-20 from the free-throw line, finishing with 81 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block in 42 minutes.

Q: Did the Lakers win the game?

A: Yes. The Lakers defeated the Raptors 122–104.

Q: How many points did Kobe score in each half?

A: Kobe scored the majority of his points in the second half, posting 55 points after halftime.

Q: Why is Kobe’s performance so highly regarded?

A: Kobe’s 81 points came in the modern NBA, against professional competition, and were essential to his team’s victory, making it one of the greatest individual scoring feats ever.

Final Thoughts

Kobe Bryant’s 81-point game is more than a box score stat — it’s a cultural explosion of athletic brilliance, mental focus, and scoring mastery. Whether you’re a die-hard Lakers fan, a basketball history buff, or a casual observer of great sports moments, Kobe’s historic night remains etched in NBA history forever.