Bryant passes Jordan for 3rd on scoring list

Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant sits on the bench during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the San Antonio Spurs, Friday, Dec. 12, 2014, in San Antonio. AP

MINNEAPOLIS — Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant passed Michael Jordan for third on the NBA’s career scoring list Sunday night.

Bryant entered the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves needing nine points to pass the icon with whom he is often compared. He got the mark with two free throws with 5:24 to play in the second quarter.

Now only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Karl Malone have scored more points than Bryant.

The Timberwolves stopped the game, and a Lakers-heavy crowd gave Bryant a standing ovation as Wolves owner Glen Taylor presented him with the game ball. Bryant received a standing ovation and hugs from teammates and the Timberwolves.

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