Reporting from Orlando, Fla.—
West 39, East 28 (end of first quarter)
It seemed pretty clear to most that Kobe Bryant had a record on his mind as this year's version of the NBA All-Star game started.
He entered the game 19 points short of passing Michael Jordan for the all-time scoring record of 262. And he got off to a pretty fast start, scoring 11 points on five-for-six shooting in a little more than 10 minutes of playing time.
The West kept their lineup in tact with starters Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, Kevin Durant and Bryant for the first 10 minutes.
Andrew Bynum, playing in his first All-Star game, wasn't especially effective, missing all three of his shots in 5 1/2 minutes. He did have three rebounds and blocked Dwight Howard's first shot.
Griffin did have his dunk on, scoring 10 points on five-of-six shooting. Paul made the only shot he attempted – a three pointer. He also had five assists.
LeBron James led the East with 11 points.
