After losing the first two, the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Spurs four games in a row and knocked the defending NBA champions out of the playoffs.  

The Lakers beat the Spurs 88-76 at Staples Center to take the series 4-2.

"For us to do what we have done for four consecutive games against them, there's a lot to be said for that," said Kobe Bryant, who scored 16 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter.

Shaquille O?Neal added 17 points, 19 rebounds and 5 blocked shots.  

Gary Payton, who had 15 points and 7 assists, said after the win that the series turned around when the Lakers focused more on defending Tony Parker and Tim Duncan.  Karl Malone, who had 10 points, said that he maintained a defensive mindset throughout the series.    

The Lakers advance to the Western Conference finals to play the winner of the series between the Mavericks or the Kings.