NBA legend the late Kobe Bryant was and still is an inspiration to fans around the world. Fans loved the five-time NBA champion’s work ethic and obsession to be the greatest at his craft. On the other hand, Kobe drew inspiration from others as well. The 2008 NBA MVP has had some great games against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden over the years. One such iconic game against the Knicks came after a night of watching Christian Bale’s The Dark Knight.

The Los Angeles Lakers legend drew inspiration from the legendary actor the late Heath Ledger. Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker is considered one of the best ever by fans around the world.

Heath Ledger inspired Kobe Bryant 

One of the best individual performances ever at Madison Square Garden came 14 years ago by none other than Kobe Bryant. On February 2, 2009, Bryant erupted for 61 in a 126-117 win over the New York Knicks. With this, he set the highest single-game score record at The Garden. Bryant once talked about his mindset and focus going into the game. He revealed that he watched The Dark Knight the night before the game and was inspired by Heath Ledger’s commitment to the role.

According to a tweet from Bleacher Report, Kobe said, “Because I stayed up watching Batman, watching Heath Ledger. And then I went and started researching about Heath Ledger. How he got into character and how he just became all consuming. That inspired me to go into my Garden mode.”

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Ledger’s performance as the Joker was lauded by fans and critics alike. The movie was released a few months after his unfortunate death in 2008. He was awarded numerous posthumous awards including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor, and the BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Bryant’s legendary night at The Garden

The 61-point performance of Kobe Bryant even received MVP chants from the New York Knicks fans. However, understandably, there were some boos as well. NBA legend Michael Jordan had the highest single-game scoring record as an opponent at the Madison Square Garden with 55 points. Bryant broke the record with over three minutes remaining in regulation.

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Kobe then had NBA legend Bernard King’s record of 60 points at The Garden. With over two minutes left in regulation, Bryant made two free throws to beat the record as he scored 61. He made 20 of 20 free throws and made 19 of 31 from the field. The 18-time All-Star also had 3 assists and 1 block.