Los Angeles, CA (Best E Casino) - Kobe Bryant exploded for 25 of his 27 points in the second half, and the Los Angeles Lakers erased a 20-point third- quarter deficit to stun the San Antonio Spurs, 89-85, in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals.

The MVP strapped the Lakers to his back with his 14-point fourth quarter, and his pull-up jumper with 23.9 seconds left broke an 85-85 tie. Manu Ginobili missed a three at the other end, and Sasha Vujacic's free throws with 7.3 seconds left sealed the win for the well-rested Lakers, who improved to 6-0 at home in the postseason.

Tim Duncan scored 30 points and grabbed 18 rebounds for the Spurs, who led 65-45 with less than six minutes left in the third quarter. San Antonio, perhaps feeling the exhaustion from a Game 7 win over the Hornets on Monday followed by a night spent in an airplane, couldn't seal the deal, though.

Tony Parker had 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Spurs, who were outscored 24-13 in the fourth quarter.

Pau Gasol scored 19 points and grabbed seven boards for the Lakers, who have won nine of 11 in the postseason.

Game 2 is set for Friday, back in the Staples Center.