National Basketball Association

Kobe returns to practice with Lakers

Published Nov. 16, 2013 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Kobe Bryant returned to practice with the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday for the first time since he tore his Achilles tendon seven months ago.

Bryant went through several light drills with his teammates during a short practice at the Lakers' training complex.

"He looked good and did a few moves I didn't expect him to do right away," center Pau Gasol told the Lakers' official website. "I'm very happy for him and for us, and definitely looking forward to when he'll play in a game."

Bryant has given no timetable for his return to the court, but had previously said he'll need significant practice time while getting into game shape for his 18th NBA season.

The fourth-leading scorer in NBA history hadn't worked out with his teammates since getting hurt in April during a game against Golden State. He has been running on a treadmill for several weeks, but had done few basketball workouts while progressing to running on flat ground.

The Lakers held a brief practice after Friday's home loss to Memphis dropped them to 4-7. Los Angeles hosts Detroit on Sunday night.

Los Angeles also is without Steve Nash, who has nerve root irritation affecting his back and hamstrings. The two-time MVP point guard will be out for at least another week, likely longer.