The Los Angeles Lakers clinched their place in the NBA finals by staging an 89-84 comeback win over Portland Trail Blazers in California. The Lakers trailed by 16 late in the third quarter, but battled through to take the best-of-seven series 4-3. Kobe Bryant contributed 25 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, with Lakers team-mate Shaquille O'Neal providing 18 points, nine rebounds and five assists.
The Lakers will face the Indiana Pacers in the first game of the finals at home on Wednesday.
