Lakers Lose Game 3

The Orlando Magic is back in the series after winning its first-ever victory, 108-104, in the NBA Finals at Amway Arena last night (June 9). The Lakers entered into Magic territory and Orlando did their fans proud with 62.5% shooting. Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis each shot 21 points while Rafer Alston was untacked for 20. Although the Lakers still lead the series, 2-1, Kobe Bryant only made 11 of 25 shots and only five of 10 free throws on his way to 31 points; Bryant made eight of his first 11 shots but seemed fatigued after a three-pointer a few minuted into the second quarter.

“We lost this game in the defensive end,” said Byrant after the game, and he was right, as Howard made five of six shots, Lewis made eight of 14 and Hedo Turkoglu made seven of 12. Despite their loss, none of the Lakers thought it was for lack of effort, with forward Trevor Ariza saying, “Nothing was wrong. They were just making shots. They were hitting tough shots and they played really well in the first half.” And they did: Orlando shot 75% in the first half, making 24 of 32 shots as they made their way to a 59-54 halftime lead. Although the Magic led by as many as nine in the fourth quarter, the Lakers tied it at 99-99 when Pau Gasol made two free throws with 2:41 to play. Bryant lost control of the ball with the Lakers down 104-102 and then Gasol fell when trying to pass the ball to Bryant, and you know the rest. The Lakers missed four three-point attempts but still hold a one-game lead in the series.

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