Bryant's sore back still painful, but much better

Tue, 13 May 2008

LOS ANGELES(AP) Kobe Bryant walked a bit gingerly as he emerged from the training area at Lakers headquarters to speak with reporters Tuesday, remaining on his feet since sitting is not a preferred option because of his sore lower back.

``Quite a bit (of pain), but it's a lot better than it was yesterday,'' Bryant said with a smile - his mood clearly positive. ``It'll be fine.''

Bryant tweaked his back in the opening minutes of Sunday's 123-115 overtime loss at Utah that tied the Western Conference semifinals 2-2. Sore back and all, he had 33 points eight rebounds and 10 assists while playing 46 minutes.

Bryant said he'll definitely play Wednesday night in Game 5 at Staples Center, adding he would have given it a go had there been a game Tuesday night.

``I think the key is to know what you can and can't do,'' he said. ``I kind of know what I can and can't do. I hope I can do what's necessary to help us win.''

Bryant didn't practice Tuesday, spending his time in suburban El ... Continue