The third quarter ended.
Fisher's wide-open three-pointer had brought the deficit back to single digits, keeping the Lakers' hopes of a comeback alive. During the break, Jackson let Lambis draw up the fourth-quarter tactics for the rest of the team while he pulled Kobe into a corner. He ignored the stench of sweat wafting off Kobe, hooking an arm around the player's shoulders. He gripped him tightly, holding him close with an unprecedentedly serious expression.
It was do-or-die now; if some things weren't said, it would be too late. He had to give Kobe one final lesson.
"Kobe!"
Jackson pointed his free left hand at the court, his tone profound. "I know you. I know you've been holding onto a fire in your heart these past few years, always wanting to prove yourself."
