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The Infamous No‑Call in 2002 Western Conference Finals Game 6

One of the most infamous no‑calls in NBA playoff history happened in Game 6 of the 2002 Western Conference Finals between the Kings and Lakers. With just 13 seconds left and the Kings up by one in the fourth quarter, Kobe Bryant delivered a clear elbow to Mike Bibby’s face—an apparent flagrant that went completely uncalled. The Lakers surged to win 106–102, largely fueled by an astonishing 27 free throws in the fourth quarter, far outweighing the Kings and prompting outrage. The controversy deepened when ex-referee Tim Donaghy, later convicted in a gambling scandal, alleged that two referees had conspired to extend the series to Game 7, motivated by NBA interests in boosting ratings and revenue. Despite these allegations, league investigations found no concrete evidence to support claims of game-fixing. Kings' teammate Chucky Brown even warned Mike Bibby before the game that the NBA might manipulate the outcome. And as fans still remember, that game remains a prime example of questionable officiating that shaped a playoff destiny. #NBAHistory #KingsVsLakers #2002WCF #MikeBibby #KobeBryant #TimDonaghy #Game6 #NBADebate #NBA #Sports