LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 5 FROM SAN ANTONIO

PLACE ANY COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS IN THE COMMENT ZONE AT THE BOTTOM. I WILL GET TO THEM THROUGHOUT THE BROADCAST.

SPURS TAKE A 3-2 SERIES LEAD
GINOBILI GOLDEN IN SPURS WIN

SPURS 103 SONICS 90 FINAL SCORE
Tony Parker may have just found his rhythm by hitting three uncontested jumpers late. That would be bad.
Ray Allen 1 for 4 in the 4th quarter and 2 points in the 3rd Quarter.


SPURS 95 SONICS 81 with 4:00 left in the 4th Q
This isn't Ray's night he has missed 4 straight jumpers
The flagrant foul on Wilkins was not flagrant.
The wind is out of the Sonics sails. When AD and Ray just missed back to back drives the team looked dejected.
Nick Collison getting his 5th foul was a huge moment in this game. He has not returned.


SPURS 91 SONICS 81 with 5:26 left in the game
This is Manu's night. In SA with Manu having this kind of night it is amazing Seattle is in the game at all.
It feels like Duncan is struggling and he has 18 points and 13 rebounds.
The Spurs have made the plays tonight. They have avoided the nervous possessions all night. The Sonics have never had the ball close enough to cause a frieght.
The best thing in the NBA may be the Spurs dancers in Chaps dancing to ACDC Shook me all night long.

SPURS 82 SONICS 75 with 8:35 left in the 4th
The Sonics may still get this game.
Give Flip Murray credit he came in the game and didn't force. He played in the system. In 10 minutes he didn't take a shot.
Brent Barry is really struggling. 0 for3 and Pop has lost confidence in him.

SPURS 81 SONICS 75 with 9:32 left in the 4th
Jerome returns with 10:37 left because Nick has 5 fouls.
JJ has been terrible, Seattle can't afford it again.
Parker is still non-existent. 1 of 9 from the field. He re-enters.
Ginobili is carring this team tonight -- 35 points.

SPURS 78 SONCIS 68 at the end of the 4th Quarter
Allen scores just 1 point in the Quarter.
The Sonics opening group just crushed the Sonics.
Mohammed had 10 points in the quarter and Ginobili had 14.

Third Quarter Guarding Duncan
Evans guarded him for 4:00 Duncan had 1 touch 0 points
Fortson guarded him for 5:30 Duncan had 5 touches and 2 points
Collison guarded him for :30 Duncan had 2 touches and 0 points.

Total he has 28 touches and 12 points.

SPURS 74 SONICS 63 with 4:13 left in the 3rd Quarter.
The Sonics have gone small and they are scoring again.
They have to find a way to get stops
The Spurs are 48-4 when they lead going into the 4th and 34-1 at home and 4-1 in the playoffs.

SPURS 73 SONICS 58 with 5:29 left in the 3rd Quarter
How much did Evans and James kill this team today. With Evans and James on the floor together the Sonics scored on just 3 of 15 possessions.
With any other combo on the floor the Sonics have scored on 26 of 36 possessions.
Ginobili is unstopable. He has 32 points on 10 of 11 shooting.

COMMENT FROM COMMENT ZONE

Locke, do you think the pressure that the Spurs put on the Sonics early in the game is starting to show fatigue wise?

Honestly I put it all on the Evans and James combo. The Sonics have only scored on 3 of 15 possessions while those two were on the floor.

SPURS 67 SONICS 53 with 7:03 in the third quarter
The Sonics have gone back to the high pick and roll as their primary offense.
Reggie Evans is having a terrible time staying with the defensive assignments.
Jerome James is struggling on the road.
The Evans and James combo has been outscored 23-5 with both on the floor. They are both playing very poorly, they are killing the offense and the defense. At the beginning of both halves the Sonics have been pounding the ball because James and Evans stymie the offense.
Narz Mohammad has 9 points in the quarter.

SPURS 56 SONICS 50 with 10:30 left in the third Quarter
6-0 run to open the Quarter. Seattle has given up two dunks and a fast break.

BENCH PLAY
The Spurs have just 4 points in 31 minutes off the bench
The Sonics have 12 points and 7 rebounds in 45 minutes.

IS TONY PARKER CLAMPING UP?
Last year he went 7 of 23 in Game 5 and 4 of 18 in Game 6 v. the Lakers
Tonight he is 1 of 8 at halftime.
In the first two games Parker averaged 25.5 pts a game since then he is just 14 of 39 from the field. In the first two games he was 18 of 33. This is the exact same as last year.

SONICS 50 SPURS 50 AT THE HALF.
Ray Allen was amazing in the 2nd quarter with 15 points
The Sonics took it right at Duncan who had 2 fouls.
Duncan missed 4 of his 6 free throws. Time to start thinking Timmy.
The Sonics scored on 16 of 21 possessions in the Quarter.
The Sonics have scored on 24 of their last 33 possessions.


Who has guarded Tim Duncan
Evans guarded him for 6:51 -- Duncan had 6 touches and scored 3 points
Forston guarded him for 9:00 -- Duncan had 10 touches and scored 4 points
James guarded him for 2:00 -- Duncan had 2 touches and scored 2 points
Collison guarded him for 2:00 -- Duncan had 2 touches and 0 points
Vitaly guarded him for 1:00 -- Duncan had 0 touches.

Seattle committed 4 fouls on Duncan.

SPURS 46 SONICS 41 with 2:34 left in the 2nd Quarter
Luke Ridnour having another good offensive day 3 of 5 shooting.
This is very surprising -- both teams are shooting over 50%.
Traditionally in the playoffs the offense becomes less good as the series goes.
Second chance points are the difference 9 to 2.
Seattle can't contain Ginobili. He is 6 of 7 from the floor and is getting into the paint.
Rudy's BBQ has struck and we are looking for Rolaids.

SPURS 41 SONICS 35 with 5:48 left in the 2nd Quarter
Sonics have scored on 8 of 10 trips in the 2nd Quarter.
Tim Duncan is pacing himself to make sure his teammates get involved.
Ray Allen has 6 in the Q
Ginobili is killing Seattle he has two threes and now a lay-up - 19 points.

SPURS 31 SONICS 25 with 8:50 left in the 2nd Quarter
Seattle scored on just 1 of their first 9 possessions since they have scored on 12 of their last 18 trips down the floor.
Seattle has never been closer. They trailed 7-0.

SPURS 25 SONICS 18 at the end of 1 Quarter.
Every time that Seattle made some progress the Spurs got an offensive rebound and extended their lead.
Narz Mohammed finished the 1st quarter with 7 points and 5 rebounds.
Ginobili had 9 points and 5 of those at the free throw line.
Sonics lineup is Daniels, Flip, Wilkins, Fortson and Collison
Duncan foul #2 with 1:18 left in the 1st Quarter.
Sonics have not found the same mid range game they had in game #3 and #4
Collison was open for a baseline jumper and that will be open all game.
Spurs have a 7-0 second chance point advantage.

SPURS 16 SONICS 10 with 3:00 left in the 1st Quarter
Ray Allen gets foul #2 with 3:17 left in the 1st Quarter without Rashard it means Flip time.
Ray just jumped into the coaches seat and addressed the team. Leadership.
The Spurs have taken the Sonics movement away. When they are pressured they are trying to dribble out of it instead of trying to pass out of it.

SPURS 7 SONICS 0 with 8:04 left in the 1st Quarter.
Spurs play the first pick and roll much more aggressively. Duncan doubled Allen. They are also bringing the big man over into the strongside block. That is three guys guarding Allen on a pick and roll.
Foul trouble will be vital -- Allen gets #1 at 10:30 mark. JJ #2 at the 8:04 mark
Spurs are going under the pick when AD has the ball he has to make the outside shot.
Sonics start 0 for 7


STARTING LINE-UPS
Spurs start Manu Ginobili instead of Brent Barry

Things to keep an eye on …..
• Are the Sonics a different team then the team that was here last week?
• Spurs Penetration
• Sonics Pick and Roll
• Fatigue of Duncan – hits on Duncan
• Sonics small ball
• Sonics just playing what adjustments can be made


A FEW NUMBERS FOR YOU
STARTS TO GAMES
Game 1: Spurs 15-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 2: Spurs 13-8 at 6 minute mark
Game 3: Sonics 15-13 at 6 minute mark
Game 4: Sonics 16-9 at 6 minute mark


STARTING LINE-UPS
Rashard will not play

SONICS V. SPURS GAME 4 -- LIVE BLOG

Place any questions or comments about the game in the comment zone and I will get to them during the live blog.

SONICS WIN IN COMMANDING FASHION
WHAT A PERFORMANCE !!!!!!
SERIES IS TIED 2-2

SONICS 101 SPURS 89 FINAL SCORE
THIS IS AMAZING !!!! WHAT A WIN !!! WE HAVE A SERIES !!!!!
Damien Wilkins defense and energy.
Ray Allen's super human play
Luke Ridnour's third quarter explosion.
Nick Collison, Jerome James, Danny Fortson and Vitaly all commanding the middle.
Antionio once again playing in total control.

What do you think their post-game huddle was like.


SONICS 99 SPURS 81 with 2:52 left in the Game
Ray Allen checks out with 32 points in 41 minutes.
How do the Spurs react considering last year they won the first two games against the Lakers and then they took away Tony Paker and the Spurs lost the next 4.

SONICS 95 SPURS 77 with 5:06 left in the 4th Quarter.
Is this the most improbable win since they won in Dallas in Game 2 of 1986-87. Which was Nate McMillan's rookie year. The Sonics went on to win the series.
Spurs did not win a regular season game when they allowed 100 points.

SONICS 95 SPURS 77 with 5:27 left in the 4th Quarter.
Sonics have just gone small. Wilkins is at the 4.
Where is Tim Duncan ?

SONICS 95 SPURS 75 with 6:36 left in the 4th Quarter
If they hold on you have to go back awhile to find a more impressive win then this win by the Sonics.
Crowd going nuts --- SUPER --- SONICS --- SUPER --- SONICS
The Sonics are in a terrific rhythm. They are recognizing the mismatches. Hitting guys on picks. It is neat to watch.

SONICS 87 SPURS 70 with 9:22 left in the 4th Quarter
The only issue left is energy. If the Spurs get rolling do the Sonics have the energy to hold them off. The real question is whether or not the Spurs have it to get rolling?
Danny Fortson is in the head of the Spurs.

SONICS 82 SPURS 66 end of the 3rd Quarter
THIS IS TOTALLY UNREAL !!!!
The Sonics scored on 8 straight possessions to close the quarter and 15 of their final 16 and 18 of their final 20 possessions of the quarter. Against the best defense in the NBA.
Ridnour is 7 of 7 in the quarter and has 19 points.
The score was 70-62 when Allen checked out !! That is huge.
You have to give Duncan credit. He came to the arena early to do work on his free throws and he has hit 14 of 17 free throws

SONICS 75 SPURS 64 with 1:21 left in the 3rd Quarter
Spurs have just 4 stops in the quarter and 2 of them came on the first two possessions of the quarter.
Fortson is making Duncan work so hard. You wonder if impacts his free throw shooting in the final moments of the game.

SONICS 70 SPURS 59 with 2:54 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ray Allen has 28 points -- he just buried the nastiest left hand jam in traffic.
If you can keep Parker and Ginobili under 20 the Sonics will win? Parker has 10 and Ginobili has 11.
This building may not have a roof in a few moments. Either because Ray busts through it or becasue the noise blows it off.

SONICS 64 SPURS 55 with 4:34 left in the 3rd Quarter
Could they really do this?

SONICS 61 SPURS 55 with 5:23 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ridnour and Collison have dealt with the playoffs terrificly.
The Sonics are fronting Duncan and it is not working. They are trying to push him off the block becasue he usually will curl over the front to get post position and will be farther off the block, but tonight they are lobbing over the smaller Sonics defenders.
RAY ALLEN HAS TAKEN OFF AGAIN
If you are near a radio turn it on -- KEVIN IS ON FIRE !!!! YOU HAVE TO HEAR KC RIGHT NOW !!!!!


Remember Kevin Pelton has another blog going on at Supersonics.com that is worth checking out.

SONICS 52 SPURS 52 with 8:20 left in the 3rd Quarter
JJ out with 4 fouls at the 10:20 mark -- Collison in
Tim Duncan is 11 of 12 from the field with 28 points. Sonics don't want to double him, but they might have to.
Sonics don't have a stop in the 2nd half.
Double Techs called on Bowen and Allen. Ray is frustrated with Bowen right now.

LOOKING TO THE SECOND HALF
Three things
1) Can they maintain the energy. Guys are being asked to play huge minutes without Rashard.
2) Where are they going to get their offense? The Sonics aren't going to get all the turnovers so they need to find a way to score
3) Can they rebound? This will be tough since they need to go small

HALFTIME STATS
Pace of Play: 43 possession (2nd quarter was very slow)
Offensive Efficiency: 101 (this is lower than game 3)
Defensive Efficiency: 96 (right where the Sonics were in game #3)
Effective Field Goal%: 51 (series high)
Defensive E Field Goal%: 40 (series low)
Offensive Rebounding %: 26%
Defensive Rebounding%: 47% (that means the Spurs are at 53% of eligible offensive rebounds)
Offensive Turnover%: 15%
Defensive Turnover%: 36%

SONICS 46 SPURS 40 at halftime
Damien Wilkins is the story of the 1st half.
I think Ray Allen has been pacing himself in the later part of the 2nd Quarter. He realizes he will have to carry this thing in the 2nd half and probably play around 46 minutes. That is why he is such a smart player.



COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE

filthy mcgreedy said...

how many points off t/o's for the sonics?

With 1:30 left in the quarter the Sonics have 10 points off 14 turnovers.

SONICS 39 SPURS 38 with 1:53 left in the 2nd Quarter.
The scary thing is the Sonics are playing as well as you could imagine. The Spurs were just 2 of 12 for the quarter with 4 turnovers and the Sonics are only up by 1.
The Sonics have gone to Wilkins as the 4. Wilkins is playing amazingly well. However, with him at the 4 the Sonics can't rebound.

SONICS 39 SPURS 32 with 4:04 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Spurs have committed an amazing 14 turnovers. The Sonics defense is every where.
Seattle is playing better then anyone could have anticipated.

Reminder Kevin Pelton at supersonics.com has another blog going that is worth checking out.

SONICS 37 SPURS 32 with 5:25 left in the 2nd Quarter
One of the issues tonight is going to be if Seattle can maintain this type of energy. They are off the charts with their energy but they are so short on the bench that Ridnour, Allen and AD will all have to play about 40 minutes. Can they keep it up?

SONICS 37 SPURS 31 with 5:54 left in the 2nd Quarter
Spurs had just 4 points in the first 5:30 of the 2nd Quarter
Ridnour hit Wilkins on an unreal bounce pass of the dribble through the teeth for a Wilkins lay-up.
Ray Allen is in the zone with 17 points.

COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE

zsonic said...

Nate has done an amazing job adjusting to opposing defences this year, but we have to give a lot of credit to all the regulars for executing the offense. This game is a prime example of taking the midrange jumper as opposed to dropping the ball off on the pick and roll

Great point on both accounts. Nate has an amazing feel for this team. Great pick up on the mid range jumper. The Spurs are denying the three therefore the Sonics have to take the mid-range shots.

SONICS 28 SPURS 26 END OF 1 QUARTER
Seattle badly misplayed the final 30 seconds of the quarter and had a non-possession and then gave up a wide open three to Duncan.
The ball bounced the Spurs way. On a great defensive stand the offensive rebounded rolled to Ginobili for a lay-up.
The Sonics are being very physical. Collison blasted Duncan at the hoop and then Fortson lowered the boom on Ginobili with a huge pick.
Nick Collison is a terrific defensive player. He is always in the correct spot.
The Sonics have knocked the Spurs out of any offensive rhythm.


SONICS 23 SPURS 20 with 2:33 left in the 1st Quarter
Spurs are in the bonus at the 3:43 mark of the 1st Quarter
AD and Ginobili could both spend time in Hollywood considering the acting they do on the floor.
Spurs have scored on 8 of the last 9 possessions.

SONICS 18 SPURS 14 with 4:54 left in the 1st Quarter
Sonics scored on 8 of 9 possessions.
Ray Allen looks very comfortable and has 8 early points
Defensive rebounding is not as good as Game 3

SONICS 10 SPURS 4 with 8:24 left in the 1st Quarter
A focus on the Spurs pick n roll defense -- they went under the pick on AD and he buried a 3. (Defender try to either go above the pick on a good shooter or under the pick if they don't mind if he shoots. The Spurs went under)
Great defense early by the Sonics. Forcing four turnovers. The only Spurs buckets are on Parker outside jumpers, which the Sonics will live by.


LAST NOTE BEFORE TIP-OFF
+/- from Game 3
Lewis +6
James +5
Allen +3
Daniels +3
Ridnour 0
Collison 0
Fortson -8
Wilkins -10

HOW MANY POINTS WILL THE SONICS SCORE?
Without Rashard the Sonics could have a really hard time coming by points tonight. The Sonics offense has been predicated on spreading the floor to create opening for the pick and roll. Without, Lewis the only way to do that is to play Damien Wilkins at the power forward with Allen, Daniels and Ridnour. The problems with that line-up are numerous. First it is so small, next Ridnour, AD and Wilkins don't put a lot of fear in the opponent from 3. Therefore, points are going to be hard to come by. I would set the over/under 80.

SONICS WITHOUT VLADY AND RASHARD
2-7 in the regular season without Vlady and Rashard.

RASHARD LEWIS INJURY UPDATE
Rashard Lewis is a scratch from the game tonight. He is not ruled out of Game 5.
The Sonics will start Daniels and Ridnour with Allen, Evans and James.

TIM DUNCAN FREE THROWS
Tim Duncan arrived at the arena before the team bus and came into the arena to just shoot free throws.

LOCKED ON SPORTS FOR MAY 13

Tune into Locked on Sports at www.KJRam.com every night from 7 to 10. If you can't call place your thoughts and comments in the comment zone at the bottom and we will get them on the air.

THE OPENING SMASH FOR MAY 13TH

SONICS V. SPURS
Huge win last night for the Sonics. We talked about validation when they won the first series, put this one the list also. They showed every one again last night what a good team they are and how they managed to win the division and 50+ games this year.
I re-watched he game today I have to tell you I saw a lot of things I really like for the Sonics. Their offense is finding a way to score against the Spurs and moreover they missed a ton of really good looks. Allen and Lewis had shots they will make. The Sonics have found a way to deal with the Spurs double teaming defense and they are now exploiting it.
Nate has created a game where Rashard is the power forward for the majority of the game that eliminates the dual posts for the Spurs this is big.
Defensively the Sonics have built a very nice game plan to limit both Parker and Ginobili and it is going to be tough for Parker to get the same penetration he got in the first game. In Game 1, he got 6 lay-ups out of the half court set, he got just 1 in the second game and while he got 4 last night, 2 of them were miracle shots. The Sonics may have found a bit of an answer for Parker.

LEWIS AND ALLEN
What is amazing is the Sonics won this game with Allen and Lewis not scoring for nearly the final 19 minutes of the game. That is remarkable. The Spurs are taking those guys away but they also are rushing shots that are good looks. Those are going to fall and the Sonics are going to be in good shape. Before you bag on these two guys realize Rashard grabbed 10 boards and Ray had 7 boards and 7 assists.

HUGE KUDOS
I got to give Huge Kudos to two Sonics players. Antonio Daniels was terrific running the offense, hitting his free throws, reading what was taking place. He was great last night. The other guy that was remarkable last night was JJ – he was flat out super. He got back defensively, he forced Duncan to the outside, he set great picks, he read the plays correctly, his hands were as good as I have ever seen and his aggressiveness was amazing. I have given JJ the business a ton, but last night he was the game changer.

TIGER WOODS
Today Tiger Woods misses the cut for the first time 142 tournaments. The only other time he truly missed a cut was in 1997, 8 years ago at the Canadian Open. That record will never be broken said Robert Appleby. This is huge. I have always felt that this streak is what truly separated Tiger from every other golfer, even if he wasn’t #1 this streak told me he was different then the rest of the golfers on the Tour. But to lose this streak is enormous. As much as he seems to have his game back on this year this is another sign that he is a top golfer in the world but is no longer in a class by himself. It is an enormous day in golf and a significant drop for Tiger Woods.

FELIX HERNANDEZ
Last night the Mariners star farm hand had his best start of the year 7 innings 2 hits 0 runs and only 1 walk the key number here is the 1 walk. Coming into the game he had walked 19 in 36 innings. Before everyone goes nuts over one start can we back up for one minute. This guy is going to be all that there is no question, but last year the Mariners brought up a bunch of guys and other than Bobby Madritch none of them could throw strikes. None of them had control not Blackley, not Thorton, not Nagoette. I don’t want to see another pitcher brought to the big leagues from Tacoma that can’t throw strikes. This is basic. So until I see this out of Felix for nearly two months of starts I don’t want to see him here no matter how bad the pitching is.

LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 3 --- SONICS V. SPURS

If you have any questions or comments place them in the comment zone. I will check them and respond during the Live Blog.

DUNCAN MISSES AND THE SONICS WIN !!!!!!

SONICS 92 SPURS 91 with 2.9 seconds left in the game
Allen goes 1 on 1 with Bowen and misses the shot. Spurs rebound.
Spurs will in bound in front court.

SONICS 92 SPURS 91 with :29.3 seconds left
The Sonics have the ball
Barry and Horry missed wide open threes. The Spurs get a third opporunity with Ginobili getting the offensive rebound and he hit just one of the two free throws.

SONICS 92 SPURS 90 with 1:46 left in the 4th Q
Jerome James has fouled out. He was terrific on the pick and roll offensively.
James was 7 of 7 and at least 5 were dunks.
Allen still no field goals since the 5:08 mark of the 3rd Q
Free throw shooting is killing the Spurs

SONICS 92 SPURS 89 with 1:56 left in the 4th Q
AD nails 4 straight free throws

SPURS 88 SONICS 88
Allen and Lewis are a combined 9 of 31.

SPURS 88 SONICS 86 with 3:00 left in the 4th Quarter
Allen's last bucket was Seattle 65th point mid way through the 3rd Q
Allen just missed an open 3. It was the first possession with a shot from Allen or Lewis since the 5:20 mark.
Lewis still out of the game.
Daniels going to the line with a chance to tie
Reggie Evans has an injury to his back.
Spurs have scored on just 2 of last 10 possessions.


SPURS 87 SONICS 84 with 4:00 minutes left
Barry in for Horry and playing the power forward -- that is going small.
Rashard Lewis just left the game with an ankle injury.

SPURS 85 SONICS 82 with 5:49 left in 4th Quarter
Seattle has just had two straight poor offensive possessions. AD forced a shot on the baseline, Ray went into the death zone and left Luke to die as the shot clock expired and
Duncan nails a 20 footer --- he is so good.
No 3 point shooting at all in the game 2 of 15 for the game
Sonics have Daniels, Ridnour, Allen, Lewis and James
Spurs have Parker, Ginobili, Bowen, Horry and Duncan.

SPURS 81 SONCIS 81 with 8:34 in the 4th Quarter
This an amazing game.

SPURS 79 SONICS 79 with 9:25 left in the 4th Quarter
Jerome James in for Nick Collison with score 79-77 Spurs.
Sonics have Ridnour, Daniels, Allen, Lewis and James
Spurs have Udrich, Barry, Bowen, Horry and Duncan
Duncan will check out at the next whistle

SPURS 78 SONICS 77 with 10:21 left in the 4th Quarter
Both teams have gone small with Lewis and Horry playing the power forward.
Tim Duncan has the most amazing hands on rebounds
Seattle is not giving Tim Duncan anything easy -- he will have to make free throws.
Rashard Lewis has by-passed two open looks and tried to drive into the DEATH ZONE. Both times turnovers. Lewis must not feel right if he is by-passing that shot.
Ray Allen returns.

SPURS 75 SONICS 75 END OF 3rd QUARTER
Talk about a learning experience for a young team -- HERE WE GO.
Robert Horry hits two dagger threes in the 3rd quarter.
When tied going into the 4th Sonics are 1-2 and the Spurs are 1-3.
Key Arena has been wonderful and should be incredible in the 4th.

SONICS 73 SPURS 71 with 1:30 left in the 3rd Quarter
Seattle is scoring again. They have scored on 8 of their last 11 possessions.

SPURS 70 SONICS 67 with 3:59 left in the 3rd Quarter
This has become an offensive display. The teams combined to score on 8 straight possessions.
The Spurs got back to back three's from Horry and Ginobili which were back breakers.
Again the Spurs never blink or seem frazzled.

SONICS 65 SPURS 64 with 4:55 left in the 3rd Quarter
Ray Allen just got caught in the DEATH ZONE and shot an airball.
For those just joining us, the DEATH ZONE is below the free throw line and near the baseline on either side when the Sonics have the ball. The Spurs double every time and Seattle have been incapable of getting the ball out of the DEATH ZONE. Until now.
Next play the Sonics ran a pick n roll where Allen starts toward the DEATH ZONE and curls back to the middle for an open jumper. Next play after that Allen goes to the DEATH ZONE and bounces the pass to JJ for a dunk. Good coaching and great execution.
Then Seattle got out of it again when Allen threw a cross court pass to Ridnour. That is a break down by the Spurs that passing lane is not supposed to be open.


SPURS 57 SPURS 57 with 8:31 in the 3rd Quarter.
Less ball movement in the opening moemnts of the 3rd Quarter. They are scoring but it is not in the correct fashion.
The Spurs are not flapable. They seem unconcerned everytime the Sonics get hot.
The Spurs game plan tonight is to work Duncan in the post.
Continued good defense on Parker.
Ray Allen scored on the first two possessions of the 3rd quarter and both were off running opportunities.

BIG QUARTER AHEAD
Spurs when leading going into 4th= 48-4
Sonics when leading going into 4th= 42-3

HALFTIME STATS
Pace of Play: 44 trips (very slow)
Offensive Efficiency: 114 (above their season average despite shooting 38%)
Defensive Efficiecny: 106 (best of the series)
Effective Field Goal%: 39%
Defensive Field Goal%: 58% (this is where they have been all series)
Offensive Turnover %:9%
Defenisve Turnover %: 19%


SPURS 51 SONICS 49 at the HALF
Seattle has played much better tonight. The Spurs are playing brillant basketball and Seattle is still in the game. If the Spurs play well they dictate who wins games, but the Sonics are in position if the Spurs blink
Duncan has been dominant in the first half.
Vitaly played Duncan well but Duncan is impacting the game on every possession offensively and defensively.
Seattle's offensive in the 2nd quarter was very efficient despite not shooting well.
The Sonics are getting to the free throw line tonight. 18 to 5 over the Spurs


SPURS 47 SONICS 47 with :48 seconds left
Seattle had slowed down the Spurs offense. They had stops in 8 of 10 possessions. Then the Spurs scored on three straight possessions.
Allen big 3 in transition. It was a running opportunity and Seattle took advantage.
Seattle has had 5 running opportunites in the quarter.

SPURS 41 SONICS 39 with 3:04 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan is so good. His defensive block on Vitaly was brillant. His effort on the offensive end is terrific. His use of angles is unequaled.
Seattle stll just shooting 35%

SPURS 41 SONICS 39 with 3:04 left in the 2nd quarter
10-2 run by the Sonics gets the Sonics to within 2 until Paker makes an unreal play driving to the basket.
As we guessed Vitaly Potapenko is playing a large role tonight.
Luke just committed a turnover by getting caught in the DEATH ZONE.
If you are watching on TV watch the Spurs defense when the Sonics try to go to the post with Lewis the defender just sits on his outside shoulder and forces him baseline into the double team. The double team is always there. The Sonics rarely get out of the DEATH ZONE

ANOTHER BLOG -- REMEMBER KEVIN PELTON HAS A BLOG AT SUPERSONICS.COM

SPURS 39 SONICS 33 with 5:29 left in the 2nd Quarter
Allen just got his first feld goal at the 6:11 mark of the 2nd quarter
The Sonics have only two running opportunites in this quarter and had only 4 in the 1st quarter.
They are taking them when they get them but it is not often.


SPURS 37 SONICS 29 with 6:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
Nazr Mohhamed just committed a foul that was identical to the flagrant foul by Danny Fortson but no call.
This game is getting chippy.
Ridnour is back on Parker -- he is playing him well.

SPURS 35 SONICS 25 with 8:44 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Spurs don't lose double digit leads.
Sonics ball movement is great. This is largely becasue they are staying out of the Death Zone of the Spurs defense.
Glenn Robinson is now in as the Spurs power forward.
The Spurs are playing Parker at the 2, this puts AD on him rather than Luke. Is this what the Spurs want?


SPURS 29 SONICS 21 END OF THE 1ST QUARTER
A terrible call on Fortson changes the complexion of the game to close the first quarter. It was gave the Spurs an extra 3 points when Horry hit a 3 on the extra possession.
Seattle looked much better and yet they still trail by 8.
They can't afford to fall any farther behind it is too hard to come back against the Spurs
Sonics shooting just 32%

SPURS 26 SONICS 21 with :20 seconds
Interesting match-ups. The Sonics are playing two bigs with Collison and Fortson. The Spurs have Duncan with Horry who is basically a three.
Damien Wilkins is getting Flip Murray's minutes
The flagrant foul on Danny Fortson was a terrible call.


SPURS 19 SONICS 19 with 2:24 left in the 1st Quarter
The Sonics have had 4 running opportunities in the game thus far -- they have 4 points off of those.
Parker has only 2 points when guarded by Ridnour on 1 of 3 shooting.
The Sonics are doing a much better job reacting to San Antonio's defense in the half court. The ball movement was terrifc lead by Ridnour.

SPURS 19 SONICS 18 with 3:06 left in the 1st Quarter
How good are the Spurs? One play tells the story. Tony Parker ran a pick and roll and the Sonics defended it perfectly and he was denied by great help by the Sonics big men. Then he dished back to Ginobili who then penetrated the defense and the Sonics rotated again but he found a gap to pass to Mohammed for a dunk. It is too hard to guard both of those guys penetrating and not leave a passing lane open.
Sonics are exploiting the Spurs over aggressive help defense with the pick n roll pass back to the big man.
Great hard foul by Nick Collison on Ginobili.
The crowd is riding Rashard Lewis hard tonight.



SONICS 11 SPURS 4 with 7:54 left in the 1st Quarter
In Games 1 and 2 the Sonics trailed 18-8 this time they are putting down the pain.
Luke Ridnour has been brillant in the opening moments, making hustle plays, defending and executing the offense.
The Spurs focus early is to get the ball to Tim Duncan
The Sonics are moving Lewis around and he is getting the ball at the top of the key and places other than the DEATH ZONE. The DEATH ZONE is the area next to the baseline at the post where the Spurs push the ball and let the teeth of their defense go to work.


THINGS WE ARE WATCHING AND CHARTING
Running opportunities for the Sonics
Match-ups
Defense on Parker by LR and AD
Lewis double team and how they react

SOME FUN STATS FOR YOU.
DEFENSE ON TONY PARKER

Game 1 v. Luke In 19 minutes Parker was 8 of 14 and scored 21 points. 5 of those field goals were lay-ups and 2 came on the fast break.
Game 1 v. AD In 9 minutes Parker went 3 of 4 and scored 8 points. 1 of those was a lay-up
Game 2 v. Luke In 17 minutes Parker was 6of 11 for 12 points. Two of those baskets came on the fast-break and just 1 on a lay-up in the half court.
Game 2 v. AD In 20 minutes Parker was 1 of 4 but scored 10 points. That was a fast break field goal.

You can see they did a much better job in Game 2.


+/- FOR THE SERIES

Player --- G 1G 2Total
Luke -- -13 -16 -29
Allen -- -16 -15 -31
Lewis -- -23 -10 -33
Evans -- -12 -7 -19
James -- -6 -15 -21
AD -- -17 -3 -20
Nick -- -4 -6 -10
Danny -- 4-4 0
Flip -- 7 -1 6


ADJUSTMENTS
My guess is that either Nick Collison or Vitaly Potapenko will get an increase in minutes. Seattle must get two things. One they need one of their bigs to make some shots. In addition, they need defenders who execute the plan and that is not a strength of Reggie Evans and Jerome James.

STARTING LINE-UPS
No surprises tonight.

LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 2 FROM SAN ANTONIO

LIVE FROM THE SBC CENTER !!! If you have any questions or comments place them in the comment zone. I am next to Kevin Calbaro tonight. If you have a question for KC or Craig Ehlo during the game put it in the comments zone.

SPURS LEAD THE SERIES 2 TO 0.

SPURS 108 SONICS 91 -- FINAL SCORE
The Spurs are simply a better team then the Sonics.
The one thing I wish we knew was if Vlady was healthy what would happen. The Sonics found an offensive set that works it is when the Sonics spread the floor and run the pick and roll with Rashard at the 4. If they had Vlady the floor would still be spread and the Sonics would have a much better team on the floor. Murray is playing terribly. Ridnour had a poor night.
On the other hand, the Spurs are scoring at will in this series and if Vlady was here it wouldn't matter at all. The Sonics have to find a way to defend in this series or it will be over in a hurry.

SPURS 98 SONICS 85 with 1:09 left in the 1st Quarter
Flip Murray is amazing. He gets called for a foul that keeps JJ in the game, it would have been James 6th, and instead of raising his hand or taking the call he evil eyes Joey Crawford for the entire time Ginobili is at the free throw line.
The Spurs just keeping making every play they need to. Never were the Sonics in the game.
The Sonics have found a way to score. They play Lewis at the 4. The Sonics have been able to score with some proficiency with this line-up.


SPURS 91 SONICS 81 with 2:51 left
AD has been outstanding on the pick and roll.
Duncan re-entered the game and the Spurs promptly scored on 4 straight possessions
Rashard Lewis is getting really unnerved by the physical defense. The problematic thing is the defense is coming from Robert Horry

SPURS 87 SONICS 72 with 5:55 left in the 4th Quarter
Seattle has only got inside 10 points for three possessions since the 1st quarter.
Seattle's offense has no ball movement. It is all one pass and go to the basket. It also has eliminated the Sonics three point game. They are just 3 of 12 from the three.

SPURS 83 SONICS 70 with 8:35 left in the 4th quarter.
The high screen and roll is paying some dividends for the Sonics
Rashard Lewis is taking it too soft to the hoop and he missed some opportunites to make cuts to get open looks.
Seattle still has only linked back to back to back stops once in this game.
Flip is terrible again.
This is one of those series where you get exposure or you get exposed. A lot of the Sonics players are not playing well. Murray, James, Evans, Ridnour, and Lewis are all playing well below their usual level. On the other hand, Allen, AD and Collison are showing great resolve against the Spurs

SPURS 79 SONICS 65 with 3rd Quarter.
Seattle has had two awful stretches of basketball and in the quarter. They will cost them the game. First with the game 66-56 Luke Ridnour committed back to back turnovers. Then in the final moments of the 3rd Quarter the Sonics went 4 straight possessions without Ray Allen touching the ball. They committed two turnovers, AD got a bad look runner as the clock was winding down and Flip Murray forced a drive. You can't do it in the playoffs.

SPURS 72 SONICS 61 with 3:15 left in the 3rd Quarter
Luke Ridnour committed back to back terrible turnovers.
Regggie Evans has moved from his collector status to the aggrevator status.
Lewis at the 4 is the match-up Seattle is exploiting. The Spurs have to go to Horry or Robinson and they are poor defenders.
Lewis should be able to score at the 4
Duncan off the floor with the Sonics trailing by 11


SPURS 65 SONICS 54 with 6:35 in the third quarter
Ray Allen is incredible. He is keeping Seattle in the game. He has 14 points since the 2:20 mark of the 2nd Quarter. He has 14 of the Sonics last 19 points
The Spurs dancers are very similiar to the Spurs defense. Great, etc....
Stops, stops, stops. Seattle has to link some stops or they will never be in this series.


SPURS 54 SONICS 42 at the Half
Seattle finally got the offense going late in the 2nd half. Most of it with Lewis at the 4. That seems to be the one match-up the Spurs don't have any answer for. That is why Vlady's injury is such a bummer. If the Sonics have Vlady the Spurs would have had match-up problems.
The Sonics defense improved for a brief moment, but then the Spurs scored on 6 of their final 7 possessions.
The Story of the first half would be how the Spurs are able to adjust to anything Seattle throws at them.

SPURS 50 SONICS 42 with :40 seconds in the half.
Ginobili is tough. He pumped faked his three and then he jabbed left twice and went right. That is his off hand and he can go that direction.
Lewis has scored 8 straight Sonics points. Allen then followed
Bowen and Allen are slugging each other, grabbing each other and pinching each other.
Barry is not healthy. His right thumb is heavily bandaged.
Seattle has 8 of the last 9 possessions.

SPURS 42 SONICS 31 with 4:11 in the 2nd quarter
Sonics on a nice little 7-0 run. They have gotten out on the break.
Lewis just got his first two buckets in the game.
Ray Allen is just 1 of 5 from the floor

SPURS 40 SONICS 24 with 5:42 left in the 2nd Quarter
This is a total domination
The Sonics are not moving the ball at all. The Sonics offense is broken.
The Spurs have ever answer. The Sonics had a nice plan on Parker and the Spurs have made the adjustment and Seattle can't answer it.
Rashard Lewis is non-existent. He is 0 for 5 for the game.
The Sonics still don't have a three in the game.
The Sonics didn't have a three in the first half of game #1.

SORRY WE LOST THE BLOGGER FEED FOR A WHILE

SPURS 20 SPURS 8 with 3:39 left in the 1st Quarter
9-0 Spurs run. The fast break is killing Seattle
Seattle the offense is totally out of sorts. They have hit just 3 of 15 tonight.
The Spurs are much quicker then Seattle. They have Parker, Ginobili, Robinson, Horry with a big.
Spurs are getting 50% of the offensive rebounds.

SPURS 13 SONICS 8 with 5:18 left in the 1st Quarer
Luke Ridnour is wearing white shoelaces with black shoes -- bad look or fashion statement?
Seattle's defensive plan looks much better. Luke has dropped off Parker and the bigs for the most part are doing a nice job of getting out on the pick and roll. JJ has missed at least two assignments and Parker went away from the show last time and got a lay-up
The Spurs are a much better fast break team then people realize. They are quick, they run a great secondary break but where they are getting Seattle is on the offensive glass on the fast break.
Jerome James is having a very poor game. He is not following the plan on the defensive side of the ball.
Bowen picks up his second foul at the 7:08 mark of the 1st Quarter -- G. Robinson and Ginobili check in


ADJUSTMENTS
Reggie Evans will now be guarding Tim Duncan and Jerome James will be able to be a help defender on both Duncan and Parker
Defending Parker will be more straight up on Parker and less reliant on help.
On the pick and rolls look for the Sonics big man to double to top of the pick

RAY ALLEN WILL PLAY
Ray is currently going through warm-ups and looks fine. He has worked on his jumper and is landing solidily on both feet. He also did an extensive stretching with Dwight Daub. He has stopped warming up and is standing on the baseline with a very intense look on his face. He stands stoicly rocking from side to side.

RAY ALLEN UPDATE
Ray has headed over to the arena where he will continue the treatment he has been recieving around the clock. He is currently going through his regular shooting routine. According to the Gasman who is in the arena he is moving fairly well.

LIVE BLOG GAME 1 FROM SAN ANTONIO

WE ARE LIVE FROM THE SBC CENTER !!! PLACE YOUR COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS IN THE COMMENT ZONE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BLOG !!!

SPURS 103 SONICS 81 FINAL SCORE
Not sure if Seattle was able to learn anything in the 2nd half about will and eon't work for Game #2.
This game was lost in the 1st Quarter.
The series may have been lost with the sprained ankles in the 2nd Quarter.
88% of the time a home team wins game 1 of a 7 game series in the NBA they win the series.

SPURS 89 SONICS 69 with 5:56 left in the 4th Quarter
Adding salt to the wound when a fan was riding Vitaly on his way back to the bench. Vitaly let a bird fly in the house. The fan was clean with his langugue.
The Sonics have done a nice job of moving Rashard Lewis around to get him looks without Ray and Vlady on the floor

SPURS 88 SONICS 67 with 6:37 left in the 4th Quarter.
The minute the Spurs brought their gys back in the game they put the pedal back to the medal and stretched it out.
Is the world coming to an end Glenn Robinson took two charges in this game?
Nick Collison is battling against Tim Duncan. Not succesfully but battling.


SPURS 73 SONICS 57 at the end of the 3rd Quarter
Fortson is guarding Duncan. He is just pounding him.
Rashard Lewis just got a shot to the jewels and is in agony. What else can happen?
Flip really couldn't be playing any worse. His off-season make is disappearing.
Seattle played very well offensively in the 3rd Quarter. They only got stopped on 6 possession in the entire quarter.
The Spurs, on the other hand, scored on only 7 possessions.


SPURS 72 SONICS 46 with 2:43 left in the 3rd Quarter
Greg Popovich runs a tight ship. Mohammed made a bad pass and missed Duncan who was wide open. The Sonics got a turnover and a fast break lay-up.
A few plays later Ginobili took the ball in the court after a deflection. He got it with 10 on the shot clock and then he went into the teeth of the defense and went 1 on 1. Popovich unloaded on him
Pop called a time-out and rode Mohammed all the way to the bench.
Seattle's defense is much e
Flip Murray is not grasping this opportunity at all. He is 1 of 6
Tony Parker is totally dominating this game.


SPURS 64 SONICS 37 with 9:51 left in the 3rd Quarter
Jerome James came out on the floor to open the second half with his warm-up jersey on. Opps.
Sonics got their first field goal off a second chance on the 2nd possession of the 2nd half.

SPURS 62 SONICS 35 AT THE HALF
Nothing is going right for Seattle.
The Spurs are penetrating at will.
The Spurs transition game is going at full bore
The Sonics offense disappeared at the beginning of the 2nd Quarter.

SPURS 60 SONICS 35 with 4.9 seconds left in the Half
It is official that Vlady will not return. Honestly, he didn't look like he was going to be able to play again the playoffs.
Line-up: Ridnour, Murray, Wilkins, Lewis and Vitaly

SPURS 54 SONICS 28 with 3:05 left in the 2nd Quarter
19-2 run.
Ray Allen has gone to the locker room. He is being looked at by the doctor.
Vlady was gone to be X-Ray'd
Rashard Lewis is not playing well, he is just 2 of 8 from the field
Seattle is getting crushed on the offensive glass
Sonics has just one field goal since the 10:12 mark of the Quarter

SPURS 44 SONICS 26 with 7:19 left in the 2nd Quarter.
Spurs on a 9-0 Run.
On the next play. Ray Allen drove to the basket and turned his ankle on his way to the basketball
Seattle committed turnovers on 3 straight possessions and 4 of the first 7 possessions of the Quarter.
Vitaly Potapenko has made his playoff appearence
Line-up of Ridnour, Daniels, Wilkins, Lewis, Potapenko

SPURS 39 SONICS 26 with 8:26 left in the 2nd Quarter
Vlady Radmanovic was just carried off the floor with a sprained right ankle. It looks very serious.

1st QUARTER STATS
Offensive Efficiency: 101
Defenisve Efficiency: 138
Effective Field Goal%: 53%
Defensive E-Field Goal%: 66%
Offensive Rebouding %: 11%
Defenisve Rebounding %:50%
Offensive Turnover %:14%
Defensive Turnover%:16%

SPURS 35 SONICS 22 end of the 1st Quarter
Lewis shot at the buzzer will not count.
Parker hit his first five shots, Ginobili has hit his first two shots
Seattle has no ability to control the Spurs penetration.
Their is no help coming from the Sonics big men.
Tim Duncan got his 2nd foul at the 1:39 left in the 1st Quarter. He is staying in the game. Nate counters with JJ checking in, the Sonics are going at Duncan for #3
The Spurs shot 13 free throws in the 1st Quarter -- Sonics just 2.

SPURS 19 SONICS 14 with 3:59 in the 1st Quarter
Jerome James got a great pick on Tony Parker on a back cut. It was the type of harder physical play the Sonics must make.
The Spurs are beating Seattle on the offensive glass. They did this in the regualr season as well. Seattle must have an advantage on the offensive glass.
Ray Allen is going right at Bruce Bowen, he has beat him three straight times after getting called for a push off offensive foul.
Allen and Lewis are getting good looks at the basket. They have combined for the Sonics last 10 points.
Allen and Lewis have taken 11 of the Sonics 13 shots.

SPURS 9 SONICS 2 with 9:16 left in the 1st Quarter
Tony Parker is torching the Sonics defense with the first 7 points
There doesn't seem to be any help defense on Parker
A great earlier example of how great the Spurs defense is, Lewis got open on a good pick from James and when he went for the pull up jumper Narz Mohhamed was already out on him to block the shot.
The Sonics have to slow the Spurs transition


THINGS TO KEEP AN EYE ON ......
• Does Parker run through the paint freely or does someone give him a good shot early
• Are they meeting Parker at the free throw line in transition and denying penetration?
• Where is Duncan getting the ball.
• Is Seattle staying with the Spurs shooters?
• Are the Sonics big setting picks to free Allen?
• How is Lewis dealing with the double team’s from the baseline?


STARTING LINEUPS
Brent Barry will start tonight for the Spurs

HOW GREAT ARE THE SPURS
Offensive Side of the Ball
Offensive Efficiency Rating: #6 in the NBA
Effective Field Goal%: #6 in the NBA
Offensive Rebounding %: #12 in the NBA
Turnover Percentage%: #9 in the NBA

Defensive Side of the Ball
Defensive Efficiency Rating: #1 in the NBA
Defensive E-Field Goal%: #1 in the NBA
Defensive Rebounding%: #3 in the NBA
Defensive Turnover %: #7 in the NBA

LIVE BLOG FROM THE BIGGER DANCE FINAL FOUR PARTY

REMEMBER TO GO TO THE COMMENTS AREA AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BLOG TO THROW IN YOUR TWO CENTS.



HELLO FROM THE PREMIER CLUB !!!!!

THE FINAL IS IN -- JESSICA SIMPSON V. ELIN NORDEGREN

Posted at 9:02 pm
Elin Nordegren defeated Beyonce Knowles 63% to 37%. If you had minus the points in the Emerald Downs sports book you win.
Jessica Simpson defeated Lindsay Lohan 66% to 34 %. If you had the minus the points in the Emerald Downs sports book you win.



Posted at 8:45
Emerald Downs Sports Book Prospective Lines
If Elin were to face Jessica the line would be Jessica about -15 1/2
If Beyonce were to face Jessica the line would be Jessica about -25 1/2
If Elin were to face Lindsay the line would be Elin by about 3 1/2
If Beyonce were to face Linday the line would be pick em.


Posted at 8:42 pm
It is getting close to the final moments of the vote. We are looking for the new lines coming out.
Last year Jessica Simpson beat Elin Nordegren 131 to 124. What will the spread be this year?

Posted at 8:30 pm
Scoring Update
Jessica Simpson leads Lindsay Lohan 67% to 33%
Elin Nordegren leads Beyonce Knowles 62% to 38%

Posted at 8:25 pm
A listener just filled out a Ladies of the hardwood bracket and had Elise as the champion.
How can you deny this look?


Posted at 8:23 pm
Groz is still holding court. He is at about the 2 hour market of leading this conversation.

Posted at 8:20 pm
Terry Reid the legendary Sonics producer is in the building. This must be a special night.
The crowd is increasing.
No sign of the Gasman yet.

Posted at 8:05 pm
With all the love Elise is getting tonight it makes you wonder what she would do if she were in the Bigger Dance. I am sure she can out talk the Final Four about the Sports World.

Posted at 8:03 pm
Jessica Simpson leads Lindsay Lohan 67% to 33%
Elin Nordegren leads Beyonce Knowles 62% to 38%

Posted at 8:00 pm
Some guy just won the raffel prize while wearing Puka Sheels. I didn't think there were any left off the Hawaiian Islands. Mitch is killing him for wearing Puka Sheels.

Posted at 7:34 pm
Scoreboard Update
Jessica Simpson leads Lindsay Lohan 67% to 33%
Elin Norgedren leads Beyonce Knowles 64% to 36%

Posted at 7:31 pm
The first person walks up to us while we are wearing headphones and talking and asks us a question. Do they think we wear these things for our health?

Posted at 7:27 pm.
Groz has changed the TV to the Simpons. Then he left the building. Now we sit watching the Simpons with no volume.

Posted at 7:02 pm.
Elise just pointed out that Mitch Levy missed a belt loop.

SCORING UPDATE
Jessica Simpson leads Lindsay Lohan 66% to 34%
Elin Nordegren leads Beyonce Knowles 61% to 39%

Posted at 7:00 pm.
Locked on Sports is underway. Big 8 o'clock hour tonight. The Hoochie Mama, The Major League Baseball Scout, Ray Allen and Nate McMillan. Tune in.

Posted at 6:52 pm
The best t-shirt of the night just entered "Derek Jeter drinks Wine Coolers."

Posted at 6:39 pm
I have my first gripe. Mitch rags on Matt Pitman the PA announcer of the Sonics all year for giving the scores backwards, but just a moment ago he announced the scores here at the P-Club and gave them backwards in order to deke the crowd. No fair playing by your own rules.

Posted at 6:32 pm
$3 dollar Miller's tonight
$4 Pilsnar's
$5 Taco Bar

FIRST SCORE UPDATE
Jessica Simpson 67% leads Lindsay Lohan 33%
Elin Nordegren 69% leads Beyonce Knowles 30%


Posted at 6:22 pm
Get down here I can tell this is going to be a classic night. The Groz is already pontificating about the world and just imagine what it will be like in a few hours.
The shocker of the night is the amount of great looking women that are already here.
Tyler Orsborn just checked to say hello. He is taking Simpson to win it again. He is taking a re-match of last year.

POSTED AT 6:15 pm
The whole crew is here -- Grosby, Mitchy, Softy, Dick Fain and all the crew of 950, KJR.

THE VOTING HAS STARTED !!!!

Let's take a quick check from the sports experts
FAIN: Thinks a re-match of last year Simpson v. Nordgren.
Note from Locke: Fain is still distressed after his quick start and slow finish. He is Mariner fan so that makes sense.

GROSBY: He says he will win.
Note from Locke: Groz is already drunk.

SOFTY: Takes a Simpson v. Mrs. Woods in the Finals. It is all about who they want to bed.
Note from Locke: I don't agree with Softy I think it is about looks, their are numerous others we would all want to bed.

Locked on Sports: Scouting report says it best: Allen unstoppable

Locked on Sports: Scouting report says it best: Allen unstoppable: "Allen is different in the playoffs. His glare is more intense. His interviews are more controlled. His focus is unparalleled. The two defensive plays he made in the backcourt of Game 4 were things we didn't see in the regular season.

Allen is a playoff player because he doesn't rely on a set play. He just plays. He feels the court. He reads the defense. He cuts to the open space. He moves with such ease that his speed is deceiving. He hits the picks at the correct angle. He lulls the defense by moving slow to fast."

HOW GOOD WERE THE SONICS PICKS IN 2003

REVIEW OF THE 2003 NBA DRAFT

This will go down as one of the best drafts of all time. However, no team was able to do more with less then Seattle. Seattle chooses Nick Collison at 12 and Luke Ridnour at 14.
Check out what happened after the 14th pick of the draft. Only Josh Howard has been an NBA starter. Limited other players have made any impact at all.
Looking back at the draft before the #12 and #14 pick the Sonics need to send thank you notes to New York for taking Michael Sweetney at #9 and to Memphis (for Boston) for taking Marcus Banks.
Can you imagine if the Sonics had taken Reece Gaines and David West or a Marcus Banks and Brian Cook. It wouldn’t have been outlandish or criticized. Instead, the Sonics made the perfect picks. The Sonics deserve huge kudos for getting the last players to make an impact.

Retrospective – This is from my weekly column for Seattle –PI --

In the Sonics’ draft range, Luke Ridnour’s ability to run the floor, pass and run a fast break registers on the “oh bleep” scale. Nick Collison’s knack for stretching the floor with his jumper and rebounding may do the same. However, will you ever fear Chris Kaman, Mike Sweetney or Reece Gaines?

HERE IS THE DRAFT ORDER !!!

2003 NBA DRAFT
1. Cleveland LeBron James
2. Detroit Darko Milicic
3. Denver Carmelo Anthony
4. Toronto Chris Bosh
5. Miami Dwyane Wade
6. LA Clippers Chris Kaman
7. Chicago Kirk Hinrich
8. Milwaukee T.J. Ford
9. New York Michael Sweetney
10. Washington Jarvis Hayes
11. Golden State Mickael Pietrus
12. Seattle Nick Collison
13. Memphis Marcus Banks (Traded to Boston)
14. Seattle (from Milwaukee) Luke Ridnour

POST-SONICS PICKS
15. OrlandoReece Gaines
16. Boston Troy Bell (Traded to Memphis)
17. Phoenix Zarko Cabarkapa
18. New Orleans David West
19. Utah Aleksandar Pavlovic
20. Boston Dahntay Jones (Traded to Memphis)
21. Atlanta Boris Diaw
22. New Jersey Zoran Planinic
23. Portland Travis Outlaw
24. LA Lakers Brian Cook
25. Detroit Carlos Delfino
26. Minnesota Ndudi Ebi
27. Memphis Kendrick Perkins (Traded to Boston)
28. San Antonio Leandrinho Barbosa (Traded to Phoenix)
29. Dallas Josh Howard

GAME 5 SONICS V. KINGS LIVE BLOG

Please put your questions and comments in the comment zone at the bottom of the blog. I will try to get to them as soon as possible.

REMEMBER I WILL GIVE OUT THE SECRET PHRASE IN EACH HALF. THEN TOMMOROW DURING THE SHOW I WILL ASK FOR IT. CALL IN AND YOU WIN PLAYOFF TICKETS TO THE SONICS NEXT HOME PLAYOFF GAME.

SONICS WIN THE SERIES AND ADVANCE !!!!!

SONICS 122 KINGS 118 -- FINAL SCORE
RAY ALLEN IS SUPERMAN AGAIN. Peja hit a 3 to make it a 2 point game with :30 seconds left. Allen just worked the dribble, waited until 5 on the shot clock. Guarded by Evans he went to the right hand dribble and got into the lane and scooped in the lay-up.


SONICS 117 KINGS 111 with 1:46 left.
Brad Miller crumbles under pressure. We have seen it all season when Reggie bothers him. he is extremely frustrated right now.
Nick Collison missed both free throws and Miller couldn't corral the rebound. Seattle ball.
Peja didn't get the rebound on the last miss.
Peja has not taken a shot since he missed his 4th on the 5th possession of the quarter.


REACTION TO COMMENTS

Andy said...

It's over...peja pulled a peja.

The question who is pulling a bigger peja -- peja or miller.

SONICS 113 KINGS 104 with 3:26 left in the game (series?)
Lewis is on his own 7-0 run. Welcome back Rashard. (THAT IS THE SECRET PHRASE FOR THE SECOND HALF. LISTEN TO LOCKED ON SPORTS TOMMOROW WHEN I CALL FOR YOU WIN TICKETS TO THE SONICS NEXT HOME PLAYOFF GAME)

SONICS 110 KINGS 104 with 3:51 left in the game
AD is finshing again tonight for Nate at the point guard.
Collison re-enters for Vlady. JJ has 5 fouls.
With all his dramatics tonight AD might join Jamie Foxx at the Oscars next year.
Lewis first points of the 4th Q with 4:45 left.
JJ makes the dumbest pass out of a post for a turnover. Trying to cute instead a fool.
Lewis going at Peja with nice aggressiveness.
Brad Miller is either gassed or he is playing the role of Peja in the 4th quarter

SONICS 106 KINGS 101 with 5:45 left in the 4th Q
Peja 0 for 5 -- Lewis blocks Peja.
Gorgeous back door to Allen from AD
4th Q pts -- Allen 7, Nick 5, AD 2, JJ 2
Sac -- Peja 4 (all free throws), Miller 2, Williamson 2.


SONICS 102 Kings 97 with 6:48 in the 4th quarter.
Rashard comes in for Vlady. Vlady has been dissapointing. A win tonight would give him a needed break to get his rhythm back.
RAY ALLEN IS SUPERMAN. ANOTHER UNREAL THREE OVER EVANS.
He then made an amazing block on Williamson right after the 3.

SONICS 97 KINGS 95 with 9:07 4th quarter
Peja just missed his best shot. A two dribble J to his left and he missed. 0 for 4.
Surprise, Surprise -- Rick Adelman is berating the officials.
His teammates all meet with him and hugged him for support when the play stopped. This is in his head big time.
Nick Collison back to back buckets.
The bench has brought the juice that was missing.
The arena is going nuts.
How will the Kings react? Will Peja fight through this? This could be an amazing fall from grace for Peja.
KINGS 95 SONICS 92 with 9:53 in the 4th Q
Where does Nate turn? Danny is playing terribly, Reggie has negated in this series. The Kings are exploited JJ on defense? He will go to JJ.
Peja starts the quarter 0 for 3.

KINGS 93 SONICS 92 opening moments of the 4th Q
What will Peja do in the 4th is what everyone in Sacramento is wondering? Will he disappear again?

KINGS 93 SONICS 90 end of 3rd Quarter
Rashard Lewis is going to have to fight through the Kings defense and make plays in the 4th.
Everything in the second half is different. Everything for the Kings is easy and everything for the Sonics is tough.
Sacramento is playing like a team that has a lot of pride. It is impressive.
Seattle is not sure what is hitting them, they look befuddled.
Seattle's defense is getting beat on every set.
Their are no such thing as nervous buckets or nervous stops for the Kings tonight. They are just playing with no worries and a lot of heart.
With all that said the Sonics are in striking distance and at home.


KINGS 88 SONICS 81 with 2:47 left in the 3rd quarter
Great move by Nate. He has moved Reggie onto Miller so he can shadow the ball in the backcourt.
Seattle is not valuing possessions.
How is Peja get so much room. The Sonics are not switching onto him.
Seattle has no juice. They are in serious trouble.
Nate is going to the bench, they better come with some energy.

REACTION FROM COMMENT ZONE

Chawhe said...

So far in the first half of game 5 JJ has been a little slow defensivly and it has reflected in his offense. Like many ball players in his situation you get your juices going on the def. end then the offense comes.

Exactly that is a great point.

KINGS 82 SONICS 76 with 5:28 left in the 3rd Quarter
Seattle got their first stop at the 7:02 mark of the 3rd Quarter
The Kings are exploiting JJ on the pick and roll in the same fashion they did in Game 3.
Luke Ridnour made two in a row. Sac has to feel good ever time they end up with him shooting.
Lewis can't find any room on the floor. He has to keep working and not wilt.
The Kings have more backdoor baskets tonight then they have had all series
Reggie Evans is lucky he wasn't ejected. He just had a nasty dirty shot at Bibby on a drive.


KINGS 76 SONICS 66 with 8:07 left in the 3rd Quarter
Seattle does not have a defensive stop in the second half
Seattle looks awful.
Sacramento has come to play and stay alive and Seattle has not matched it.

Be sure to check out Kevin Pelton's blog at Supersonics.com.

KINGS 64 SONICS 63 with 10:14 left in the 3rd quarter
Mobley is not in the game. He is out with a sprained right foot.
Knocking a team out of the playoffs is not easy and now the Sonics are in for a fight.
Let's watch shots in the second half. Allen and Lewis combined for only 13 in the first half.

HALTIME STATS
Pace of Play: 48 trips
Offensive Efficiency: 130 (that is very very high)
Defensive Efficiency: 116 (under 105 is the magic number -gave up a 135 in 2nd Q)
Effective FG%: 59%
Defensive EFG% 56% (73% in the 2nd Quarter)
Offensive Rebounding%: 40%
Defensive Rebounding%: 80% (terrific)
Offensive Turnover %: 15%
Defensive Turnover %: 6% (Seattle has to force some turnovers)

SONICS 60 KINGS 57 at Halftime
Nick Collison played the role of JJ making three big plays including a put back dunk to hold off the Kings run.
The Sonics shot allocation is little off. The Kings are doing a nice job of forcing the ball out of the hands of Lewis and Allen. The Sonics still need those guys to make the plays that are deciding plays.


SONICS 56 KINGS 53 with 2:00 left in the 2nd Quarter
The Kings have gotten hot.
This reminds me of Game 2. The Kings got hot and starting rolling, but the Sonics answered with back to back buckets with James in the post. It deflated the Kings and the Sonics burst out in the 3rd Q. Let's see if they can do it again.,

SONICS 54 KINGS 48 with 2:45 left in 1st half
Whatever adjustment was made by the Kings is not working. The only thing I have seen iis they are doubling hard on Allen at all places on the floor, but doubling at 23 feet is basketball death and the Sonics have exploited it by finding the open man.
In addition, they are making Ridnour hit shots and he has.



SONICS 50 KINGS 41with 4:41 left in 2nd Quarter
Adelman is not using Bobby Jackson tonight on Allen. Instead he is using Mo Evans. That is surprising.
Vladyjust beat Peja in the right block. That will be talk of some summer conversations.
LUKE RIDNOUR JUST BROUGHT THE PLACE TO ITS FEET.WITH A REMARKABLE BEHIND THE BACK THROUGH THE LEGS PASS TO LEWIS FOR JAM FROM HALFCOURT.
Sacramento has shown no sign that they can stop the Sonics offense.

SONICS 42 Kings 34 with 7:11 left in the 2nd Quarter.
AD just fell to the floor and seems a bit gimpy.
Cutino Mobley just called for a sub with an injury
I think Luke may end up one of the league leaders in steals in the next few years. His anticipation is great and his hands are amazing. Once he is established some of this years fouls will be steals.
Brad Miller is a terrific passer. He is finding gaps in the Sonics

SONICS 33 Kings 24 with 10:45 left in the 2nd Quarter
There are signs that the Kings are trying to take the easy way out. They took 9 threes on 24 trips down the floor. That is really lazy. Their transition defense is lazy.
AD and Luke are combining for great effort right now.


1ST QUARTER STATS
Pace of Play: 24 trips
Offensive Efficiency: 125 (as good as Game 4)
Defensive Efficiency: 97 (under 105 is the magic number)
Effective FG%: 59%
Defensive EFG% 42
Offensive Rebounding%: 43%
Defensive Rebounding%: 80% (terrific)
Offensive Turnover %: 17%
Defensive Turnover %: 0% (impressive)

SONICS 29 Kings 24 end of the 1st Q
The last two defensive possessions by the Sonics were GREAT. Trapping the double team, perfect rotations and super energy.
The bench seems much better than it has been in this series.

SONICS 25 Kings 24 with 1:31 left in 1st Q
The over on Javie's first T just won. (THAT IS THE SECRET PHRASE FOR TICKETS IN THE FIRST HALF)


SONICS 20 Kings 19 with 3:47 left in the 1st Quarter
Little things. In transition Rashard Lewis went out of his way to pick for Ray Allen to get him an opportunity. That is cool. The ball never got to Allen, but that is what great teams do.
Is it a coincidence that once the Sonics #1 +/- left the game (Jerome James) and the Kings #1 +/- player came into the game that the Kings went on a 7-0 run.

SONICS 17 Kings 12 with 5:31 left in the 1st Quarter
Seattle is beating Sacramento down the floor. The Kings are not picking up in transition.
The Kings are doubling Allen all over the floor
Peja hits his first shot. He went to his left. It is amazing the difference if thehy can force him right.
Peja only scored 10 of his points in Game 4 against Lewis.
It looked as though Reggie Evans punched Miller in the stomach on his way to the Slam Dunk
Jerome James out with 2 fouls. Collison in.

SONICS 9 Kings 2 with 9:14 left in the 1st Quarter
First adjustment from Sacto. They have put the ball in Mobley's hands and have Bibby rolling off the baseline picks to try to get free offensively.
It also allows the Kings to run Allen off of Brad Miller picks.
The arena is pumping.
Ray Allen just drove the middle and faked out Brad Miller so badly that Miller fell to the ground

FINAL NOTE BEFORE TIP-OFF
Steve Javie is one of the officials tonight.
Three betting lines in honor of Javie.
The following odds are over/under lines
First Techinical by 2:00 left 1st Q
Fortson first T - 5:00 left in 2ndQ
Total T's: 4


FROM THE COMMENT ZONE

From DJ
The Sonics are 5 - 9 on three point atempts below the elbow the last two games and 9 - 36 on threes from obove the elbow.

Wow you are a mad man. That is a great note. AD is the player where that is most obvious. I talked to the coaches about the corner three and they said it really isn't a play you can call. Instead, it is the last pass on rotation therefore, usually the spot where the defense breaks down.

On another note I want to thank DJ, Andy and all the other that have made the Comment Zone full of activity during these blogs. Thanks guys.

REACTION TO COMMENTS
From the comment zone ...

It doesn't seem likely that Ray Allen is going to be able to go at a 61% FGP clip again. That was more amazing than 45 points. However, I also think that Rashard Lewis is due to get his jumper going. I also think that with the Kings soft front line, the opportunity for Nick Collison to put up double digit points off of offensive rebounds is pretty high. Particularly if the Kings try and use one of their bigs to stop Jerome James in the post.

I totally agree. They are going to incorporate more of their plan on Jerome and they will double Ray off the pick n rolls. Therefore, AD or Nick is going to have to make some plays. Look for some corner threes being open off the double of Ray. This may mean it is Vlady time. Ray said he thinks Vlady will have a big game.


PRE-GAME NEWS
Rick Adelman says that he wants to double Ray off the pick and roll.
The Sonics want to bring a shooter to the corner of the ballside when Ray is doubled.
The Sonics will still try to work Miller on the pick and roll and on the curl picks.
Which Kings team is going to show up is the great mystery?

SHOOT-AROUND
The Sonics look to clinch tonight. Nothing eventful at shoot-around. The Sonics went through the two scenarios that they anticipate the Kings will throw at them to stop Ray Allen. The group was loose and seemed ready to get the job done.

KEY STATS FOR GAME 5
· Defensive Effective Field Goal% : Effective Field Goal % weighs the value of a three point. In the three wins the Sonics have held the Kings to an effective field goal% of 45% or lower. In the loss they allowed 53%. This is a tough task since the Kings average a regular season effective field goal % of 49.6%

OPENING SMASH FOR MAY 2

RAY ALLEN 45 POINTS
So many things were impressive about his night, but three things more than anything else jump out at me. First, he wasn’t forcing or playing out of the offense. In fact, when he got tired, he found Collison and Lewis for buckets instead of forcing it. His defensive intensity was at a high level in the second half as well. Finally, the #1 game plan of the Kings is to take him away in the playoffs and they can’t do it. The Sonics have negated Peja at time. The Sonics have made Bibby’s life difficult. The Kings can’t do anything to Ray Allen. He is too complete a player. He can go either way, he can finish with both hands, he can stop and pop or rise and fire. When he is on his game his shot release is the quickest in the NBA. He is unguardable. It is the elite, elite of the NBA.

RAY ALLEN REACTION TO GAME 3
Ray Allen’s unusual reaction after Game 3 now is beginning to make so sense. Allen was furious after Game 3. I spent a good deal of time with him and I was really mystified about why he was so upset. After Game 4 and talking with him again today it makes sense. Allen wasn’t just hot last night he has been like this all series and he thought with a few more opportunities on Friday he could have willed them to a win the way he did last night.
That is what makes a superstar. He has the complete belief that given the opportunity he can will his team to a win every night. He was unreal last night. Before tonight’s show I am going to re-watch a lot of last night’s game because I am convinced that he got very few good looks and he created all of this on his own. That is the ultimate in awesome.

NATE
Nate deserves huge kudos is how he handled his team between games 3 and 4. These guys flipped out after Game 3. They were snipping at each other in the locker-room, they were pointing fingers in the huddle, they were blasting the coaching staff in the post-game interviews and at halftime they were a zoo inside the locker-room. It was a vast over reaction. It felt like they were on the verge of a terrible collapse. I was wondering if the adversity had arrived and they were about to fold under the pressure.
Instead, McMillan addressed his team and told them stop worrying about everyone else and put the focus on yourself and take care of your own energy. Do your job and stop wondering if someone else is doing their job. The credit also goes to these players because they responded.

RASHARD AND HIS TOUCHES
One of the issues was Rashard Lewis and his touches. Here is an interesting note on Rashard and his touches. He had 25 touches in game 3, which was more than in both Games 1, and Game 2 but he had 39 in Game 4.

OTHER THOUGHTS
Nick Collison taking three charges was amazing. Moreover, after struggling badly in the first two games he finally came out and did what makes Collison great. He executed the defense and he was in the right place at the right time all night ….. Jerome James defensive rebounding in the second half of Game 4 was terrific. It was the best I have ever seen out of him and it was the most impressive thing I have seen him do all series. Yes, including his absurd offensive production, his defensive rebounding was awesome …. Nate McMillan has an incredible feel of his team and the game. Antonio Daniels has been so terrible in this series. At the end of the first half I was wondering if Nate could afford to play him in the second half and I am betting Nate was wondering the same thing. Instead, he rolls him out their and he closes the game and did it well. That is incredible. Give Nate huge credit again for having the faith in his players and having an environment where they can succeed.

THE ORGINIAL BOOM!! THERE GOES THE DYNAMITE

Where did KC's call of "Feed it to the Man. Boom their goes the Dynamite," come from. Here is it. This has to be the worst sports cast of all time.

LIVE BLOG -- SONICS V. KINGS 2nd half GAME 4

WE ARE SPLITTING THE BLOG BECASUE WE ARE LOSING INFO.
Please place any questions or comments in the comment area and I will try to get to them

SONICS WIN !!!!! 115-102 -- they lead the Series 3-1
Ray Allen did what special players do. They win games. They dominate. They reach a level where they are unstoppable. Flat out sick, wicked and nasty.
The Sonics defense was outstanding in the second half. That they were able to switch from as the first half to the second half is shocking.
What the Kings will do next will be very interesting.
One of the toughest things to do in basketball is to knock a team out of the playoffs who are playing for their lives. However, no one is sure what the Kings are going to do.

SONICS 114 KINGS 100 with :24 left.
Ray just equalled the Sonics record of 45 points in a playoff game.

SONICS 111 KINGS 98 with :41
A 30 point second half by the Kings. The Sonics whose defense could not have been worse in the first half dominated in the second half.
Reggie Evans is screaming it is cold in here, it is cold in here. He may be talking about the Kings offense.
It looks like a fire alarm just went off in the building.

SONICS 109 KINGS 98 with :54
Mike Bibby is 4 of 17 from the field and has just missed two free throws
Luke Ridnour made both free throws and Ray Allen has willed the Sonics to a win.

SONICS 107 KINGS 98 with 1:02 left.
ALLEN JUST RIPPED THE KINGS HEART OUT WITH A FALL AWAY THREE AS THE SHOT CLOCK SOUNDED. THE BASKET FOR RAY IS BIG !!!!!

SONICS 104 KINGS 98 with 1:27 left.
AD runner puts Seattle up 7.
Bibby hits 1 of 2 free throws

SONICS 102 KINGS 97 with 2:39 left
Allen misses off a pick and roll with Collison.
Allen and Lewis run the pick and roll. Lewis fouled hits both free throws. Sonics by 7.
Miller has 5 fouls

SONICS 100 KINGS 95 with 3:51 left.
Nick Collsion just took his third charge of the Quarter.
Sonics are gassed -- great timeout by Nate

SONICS 98 KINGS 91 with 5:23 left
Jerome James has been great on the boards. Particuallrly on the defensive side.
Of course as Jerome works as soon as type that he brutalizes a possession by not screening out Mike Bibby on the shot and gives up an offensive rebound.
RAY ALLEN HAS 40 !!!!!!
Fred Brown has the Sonics playoff high with 45
Ray Allen's career high is 47
Ray Allen's playoff career high is 41

SONICS 97 KINGS 90 with 6:15 left
Collison on the pick and roll from Allen puts the Sonics back up 7.
The Kings have only scored one of their last 7 possessions.
The Kings have just 22 points since halftime. That is over 18 minutes.

SONICS 95 KINGS 88 with 7:25 left
Kings just got their first offensive rebound of the second half.
RAY ALLEN AGAIN.
Nick Collison has taken two charges in the 4th Quarter.
Lewis misses a wide open three that would have put the Sups up 7.
Antonio banks a three and the foul -- Sonics by 7. They trailed 41-22.

SONICS 90 KINGS 88 with 9:13 left.
Lewis enters as does Peja.
Sonics have the ball with a chance to take the lead for the first time since the 1st Q
RAY ALLEN BURIES THE SICKEST THREE WITH TWO GUYS ON HIM. HE STROLLED AROUND THE ARCH AND THEN JUST EXPLODED!!! SONICS LEAD

KINGS 88 SONICS 87 with 10:00 left
On the floor to start the 4th: AD, RA, VR, Danny and Nick. Fortson only lasts :50 seconds. JJ in. Kings are going three guards.
Bobby Jackson is on Ray Allen.
Ray Allen is in a different place. 35 points.

KINGS 84 SONICS 80 end of 3rd Quarter
Here we go !!!!!!
Ray Allen has been amazing with 30 points. He is doing what great playoff players do. He is making plays when their is nothing left on the floor. The Kings are surrounding him and they still can't stop him.
The Kings never got their high post offense rolling in the 3rd Quarter.


KINGS 82 SONICS 76 with :52 seconds left in the 3rd Q
Strange match-ups. The Sonics have Vlady guarding Mobley. Can they exploit it on the other side.
Mobley just hit a three

KINGS 75 SONICS 73 with 2:51 in the 3rd
"Give it to the man and boom goes the dynamite."
Check out the video of the worst sportcaster ever lower down on the blog and you will get why Kevin just said that on Ray Allen's three.

KINGS 75 SONICS 70 with 3:17 left in the 3rd Q
This is agonizing. Both teams have gone brutally cold and sloppy
The Sonics have blown 5 straight chances to get it to three points.
Vlady through a terrible pass to James and on the possession before he got stuck and the offense broke down.
Here comes the Seattle bench. AD in for Luke. This group killed the Sonics in the 3rd Quarter.
In the first

KINGS 75 SONICS 70 with 4:14 left in the 3rd Q
I just saw the first nervous body langugue from the Kings. Mobley missed a three and jumped up and down about how big it would have been.
Seattle has blown three chances to get it to one possessions.

KINGS 75 SONICS 70 with 5:34 left in the 3rd
This arena is different all of a sudden.
The crowd is beginnig to get anxious.
But Seattle can't get the stop they need.
Seattle can't have the mental breakdowns they had at the end of quarter 1 and 2.

KINGS 70 SONICS 62 with 8:14 left in the 3rd
Great flurry by the Sonics have them knocking on the door.
In Game 3 they could never make what I call the nervous basket or nervous stop. The basket or stop that makes the Kings realize their backs are against the walls. Will they tonight?

KINGS 72 SONICS 66 with 7:07 left.
The defensive intensity is much better. Moreover, they are handling the game on the boards.
Are the Kings nervous? They will be if the Sonics can get a stop and a bucket cutting it to 4.

LIVE BLOG -- GAME 4 SONICS AT KINGS

SORRY WE JUST LOST THE 1ST QUARTER BLOGS. I DON'T KNOW HOW TO GET THEM BACK SORRY
Place your questions and thoughts in the comments areas and I will try to get to them and give you my thoughts.

2nd Half Stats
Offensive Efficiency: 114
Defensive Efficiency: 132 (an amazing 140 in the 2nd quarter)
Offensive Rebounding%: 22% (not acceptable)
Defensive Rebounding%: 55%
Effective Field Goal%: 61% (70+% in the second quarter)
Effective Def FG%: 57% (That is shockingly poor)
Offensive Turnover%: 22 % (this is Game 3 all over again
Defensive Turnover%:10%

KINGS 68 SONICS 56 at the Halfime.
68 points in a half is a joke, the Kings aren't this good. They look great but that is largely because the Sonics are showing no resistance.
Second chance points are 17-2
Kenny Thomas is dominating Seattle.
The Sonics look like they have never played defense before.
Terrible ends of quarters will cost Seattle this game.

KINGS 60 SONICS 52 with 1:04 left in the half
Vlady Radmanovic really looks like he is out of rhythm. He missed a ton of practice
Vlady is so bad on the boards right now it is almost impossible to have him on the floor. Then back to back turnovers by Allen and Lewis.
The bonehead plays to end each quarter are enough to cost you a game.
The end of the 1st Quarter and now allowing offenisive rebound on the back end of a free throw.
The game has gone small with Collison and Songalia playing center
The turnovers are killing the Sonics.

KINGS 55 SONICS 48 with 2:55 left in the 2nd Quarter.
No one is playing any defense.
Seattle has scored on 11 of 13 possessions.
Then they committed back to back turnovers.
They can't make mistakes they built to big a hole. If they let down in the final 2:58 left they will never have a chance in this game.

KINGS 49 SONICS 44 with 4:34 left in the 2nd Quarter
A 17-2 run
When Vlady re-entered Nate said to him, you have to rebound, he just got beat again on the defensive boards.
Jerome is scoring ont he pick and roll instead of post up like he did in Game 1. This is much better for the Sonics.
I like having Cutino Mobley on the other team.

KINGS 43 SONICS 34 with 7:13 left in the 2nd Quarter
Miller is killing Jerome
The Sonics scored on 8 of their first 14 possessions and once they went to the bench they scored on just 3 of their next 15.
They have gone to the starters plus Vlady for Reggie and have scored on 5 straight possessions.