Mike Jones

Fisher’s 3-pointers help Lakers seize command

It wasn't pretty, but the Los Angeles Lakers found a way to get the job done. Published June 12, 2009

Bryant too tired?

Year-round competition leaves Lakers star exhausted. Published June 12, 2009

Bryant seeks some balance against Magic

When Kobe Bryant looked less than sharp in the second half of Game 2 of the NBA Finals on Sunday, Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson - reflecting after his team's overtime victory - said part of the problem was his star was trying to do too much in certain stretches. Published June 11, 2009

Back at home, Orlando gets back in series

ORLANDO, Fla. | Something definitely can be said for playing in friendly confines. Published June 10, 2009

Missed call no factor

Jackson: Gasol's apparent goaltending didn't affect shot. Published June 10, 2009

Frustration mounts for Magic

Orlando still seeks way to solve Lakers. Published June 9, 2009

Tough task for Magic

Lee, Pietrus enjoying trying to guard Bryant. Published June 8, 2009

Lakers need overtime but still take 2-0 lead

LOS ANGELES | Refusing to put much emphasis on the Orlando Magic's atrocious performance in their NBA Finals-opening blowout Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers predicted Sunday's Game 2 would be much more of a challenge. Published June 8, 2009

Bryant enjoying himself

Regardless of appearances, Kobe Bryant insists he is having fun as he pursues his fourth ring Published June 7, 2009

‘Igniter’ sparks Lakers

LOS ANGELES | Lamar Odom has always been a player praised for his athleticism and rare versatility. At 6-foot-10, he has the size of a power forward, but he also possesses the skills that allow him to handle the ball like a point guard and knock down shots on the perimeter as well as any shooting guard. Published June 7, 2009

Magic aim to make blowout disappear

The morning after they opened the NBA Finals with a 100-75 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Orlando Magic insisted there is no panic within their ranks. Published June 6, 2009

Nelson returns for Magic

Ailing guard back on floor for Game 1 of Finals. Published June 5, 2009

Lakers romp in opener behind roaring Bryant

So that's what the surliness was all about. On the eve of Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant kept his remarks to the media short and curt and refused to budge. Published June 5, 2009

Bryant dismisses O’Neal factor

Since the summer of 2004, it has been one of the few knocks basketball fans have had against Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant. Published June 4, 2009

NBA Finals preview

Breaking down the matchups between the Magic and Lakers. Published June 4, 2009

Experience makes Lakers favorites

On Basketball: The Los Angeles Lakers demonstrated the value of experience and proved the cream rises to the top. Published May 31, 2009

‘Witnesses’ keep waiting

The Nike billboard that bears the larger-than-life image of LeBron James and the slogan "We Are All Witnesses" still hangs from a building downtown, about a half a block up from Quicken Loans Arena, like a glowing beacon of hope to the tortured fans. Published May 28, 2009

Cassell follows his calling

Five years into his playing career, and just three seasons removed from back-to-back championships with the Houston Rockets, Sam Cassell looked at coach Rudy Tomjanovich, observing the respect he commanded and the knowledge and insight he shared. Cassell thought to himself, "I want that." Published May 23, 2009

D.C.’s West plays vital role for Cleveland

As the Cleveland Cavaliers continue their quest to end their city's 45-year championship drought, all eyes are on LeBron James. But the league MVP deems someone else vital to the team's success - D.C. native Delonte West. Published May 22, 2009