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9 Career-Defining NBA Games: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant & LeBron James
Michael Jordan scored 63 points against the 1986 Boston Celtics—and lost. Discover nine career-defining NBA games that changed how the basketball world saw a player, from MJ at Boston Garden to Jalen Brunson's 45-point clincher in the 2026 NBA Finals.
Some performances matter beyond the final score. A role player becomes a star. A star becomes a superstar. Explore the unforgettable nights that transformed the reputations of Michael Jordan, Damian Lillard, Stephen Curry, Kawhi Leonard, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jalen Brunson.
Relive Kobe's 81 points…
The skinny
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