Phil Jackson, matter-of-factly, said it wasn't over. Kobe Bryant, with a touch more defiance, said it wasn't over. And as of Monday morning, both men are correct, if not by much.

Whether it was the first step of a resurrection or just a stay of execution - and with Games 6 and maybe 7 in Boston, bet on the latter - remains to be seen. But after Sunday night's Game 5, the Los Angeles Lakers are still playing. Following a nervy 103-98 victory over the Boston Celtics at the Staples Center, L.A. still trails 3-2 in the series, but has another chance to extend this NBA season.

That being said, they nearly blew it. Then, they nearly blew it. After that, they nearly blew it.

Bryant scored 25 points and made a key steal and decisive dunk in the final minute to beat Boston 103-98 and deny the Celtics their 17th NBA title -- at least for now.

Lamar Odom added 20 points and 11 rebounds. Pau Gasol chipped in 19 points and 13 boards. The Celtics lead the series 3-2. The Lakers are trying to become the first team to overcome a 3-1 deficit in the finals to win a title.

Paul Pierce was huge for Boston with 38 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds.

The Lakers, who blew a 24-point lead in losing last Thursday night, nearly squandered a 19-point lead in this game. But the Lakers regrouped to extend their season.

The Lakers have to win on the Celtics' floor Tuesday night to force a winner-take-all Game 7. Boston is 12-and-1 at home this postseason.