NBA Playoffs: Lakers Win Again, Take 3-1 Lead to Los Angeles

ESPN called Game Four the Spurs' "Last Stand". It very well may have been, as the Lakers are heading back home one win away from returning to the NBA Finals.

San Antonio hopes they can right the ship as they face elimination now that Los Angeles has handed them their first home playoff loss this year.

Los Angeles jumped out to an early 22-8 lead and never looked back. The Spurs fought back, closing the gap to two, as they pulled back to a 81-79 deficit in the fourth quarter. The Lakers negated that comeback, however, by scoring a quick eight straight points.

Pau Gasol had the opportunity to put the game away for the Lakers with 50 seconds left in the game and with a seven point lead. He missed two free throw attempts, though, and San Antonio scored five straight points.

With only 28 seconds left in regulation, and the score 93-91 in favor of Los Angeles, Derek Fisher missed a shot and the ball sailed out of bounds, last touched by the Spurs.

When the Lakers got the ball back, they had two seconds left on the shot clock. Bryant missed a 16-foot jump shot.

The Spurs had 2.8 seconds left to score. They took a timeout and both sides made substitutions.

Brent Barry went for the win with a 27-foot three-point shot, but missed.

As soon as the final buzzer sounded, Bryant pumped his fists in the air in celebration. His team was heading back home up 3-1.

Bryant was once again the key for the Lakers. He put up 28 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Pau Gasol also contributed as he scored 10 points, had 10 rebounds, and dished out six assists.

This game hinged on the play of Lamar Odom and whether he could produce like he has been. He once again showed his worth as he scored 16 points and had nine rebounds.

Vladimir Radmanovic had 11 points and six boards, Derek Fisher put up nine points, and Luke Walton added nine points and five rebounds.

Only three Spurs scored in double figures Tuesday night; Tim Duncan put up 29, Tony Parker 23, and Brent Barry also had 23 points.

Duncan dominated the post like he has all series grabbing a game-high 17 rebounds.

The surprise tonight came from reserve guard Brent Barry. His 23 points and five rebounds were not expected, but very welcome for San Antonio. He was the one who missed the last second shot.

These two teams will now head back to California for Game Five. The game will be held on Thursday night at 9 p.m. EST on TNT.

Be sure to tune in. There may not be another game in this Western Conference Finals.