Bryant feted but Sixers win at last

All eyes were actually on the Philadelphia 76ers Tuesday night as Kobe Bryant, who grew up in a suburb just outside of the city, played his final National Basketball Association game at the Wells Fargo Center.

But a 23-point haul from forward Robert Covington laid the foundation for a deserved 103-91 Sixers victory as Bryant and the Lakers tumbled to 2-15, the worst record in the Western Conference. Despite strong play against the Celtics, Timberwolves and Heat, Philadelphia couldn’t polish off the first victory of a discouraging season.

He buried a three-pointer off the opening tip and hit another three on the next possession.

Bryant’s decision was revealed on Sunday via The Players’ Tribune, bringing the beginning of the end of a glittering 20-year career. John Wall, whose struggles have contributed to Washington’s lackluster start, broke out for a season-high 35 points to go along with 10 assists and five steals.

Philadelphia, which trailed by as many as 14 points in the first half, opened the third quarter with a 19-7 rush to go in front, 69-65. Philadelphia also ended a 28-game losing streak, longest in the history of the four major North American sports.

In his first game of the season after having preseason knee surgery, Evans led the Pelicans with 20 points and 10 assists.

The Pelicans lost despite the return of starting guard Tyreke Evans and top reserve Norris Cole.

Gasol was 11 of 22 from the field and made all 16 of his foul shots. D’Angelo Russell flashed his elite passing ability and even dunked in traffic, while Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson certainly had their moments, too.

Nicholson finished with 15 points.

Nikola Vucevic starred with 18 points and 12 rebounds in Orlando’s 96-93 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves – the Magic’s fourth consecutive triumph.

Noel returned to action after missing the last two games because of some knee soreness and an illness.

“We have an extremely limited number of seats remaining for tonight’s game at this point”. Minnesota also had a shot clock violation.