Sports / Basketball

Struggling Lakers past Hawks 114-109

(Agencies) Updated: 2014-11-19 13:11

Struggling Lakers past Hawks 114-109

Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) makes a move against Atlanta Hawks guard Thabo Sefolosha (25) in the fourth quarter of their game at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Nov 18, 2014. The Lakers won 114-109. [Photo/Agencies, Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports]

ATLANTA - For Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers, it was a rare chance to celebrate.

They didn't pass it up.

Bryant scored 28 points and the Lakers held on for just their second win, beating the Atlanta Hawks 114-109 on Tuesday night.

A locker room that has been solemn most of the season was a lot more raucous this time.

"Man, oh man, that's a lot better," Jeremy Lin said. "It's been a rough start to the season."

Bryant's biggest shot came with 1:11 remaining, when he backed in against Thabo Sefolosha and made a fadeaway jumper despite being fouled. Bryant slapped hands with a fan on the front row and completed the three-point play, giving the Lakers a 108-102 lead.

"It's been tough," Bryant said. "But you find beauty in the process."

The Hawks had a chance to force overtime after the Lakers (2-9) failed to put it away at the line. But Los Angeles smothered long-range threat Kyle Korver, leaving Pero Antic to take an open 3-pointer. It clanked off the rim and the Lakers gobbled up the loose ball to seal the victory.

Carlos Boozer added 20 points for the Lakers. Nick Young, coming back from a thumb injury, had 17 in his first game of the season.

Jeff Teague scored 23 for the Hawks, who lost for the first time at home.

Most Popular
What's Hot
Highlights
Special
...