The Sonics as a team were a –40 in the series. In parenthesis is what the team did when that player was on the bench.
Player Total
Nick Collison +17 (-57)
Danny Fortson +3 (-43)
Damien Wilkins –12 (-28)
Rashard Lewis –27 (-13)
Ray Allen –27 (-13)
Antonio Daniels –30 (-10)
Luke Ridnour –33 (-7)
Reggie Evans -33 (-7)
Jerome James -44 (+4)
Friday, May 20, 2005
Thursday, May 19, 2005
LIVE BLOG FOR GAME 6 -- SONICS V. SPURS
Put your question or comments in the Comment Zone. I will try to respond throughout the game. REMEMBER TO HIT REFRESH TO GET THE LASTEST INFORMATION.
SPURS 98 SONICS 96
Duncan knocks down a little hook off a Ginobili drive to give the Spurs the game winner.
Horry hits the 3. He is unreal.
Think about all the missed opportunities earlier in the game.
SPURS 90 SONICS 89 with 2:00 left in the game.
This is all about making plays at this point.
Luke and Nick just made a great play. Allen lead to Wilkins.
4 guys are guarding Ray right now, but he has to be the player who makes the decisions.
Nick is doing a solid job on Duncan
Line-up to close the Season in the Western Conference Semi-Finals: Ridnour, Daniels, Allen, Wilkins and Collison. What would have you guessed at the beginning
SPURS 86 SONICS 84 with 4:57 left in the 4th Quarter.
The coaching staff is concerned to play Colison on Duncan, but I think Colison has to be on the floor. The coaching staff is correct that he might not be able to stop Duncan and that could cost you the game. Duncan is just to long.
Collison enters the game -- let's see how it works.
Collison a rookie guarding Duncan for the season. WOW
SPURS 83 SONICS 82 with 5:49 left in the 4th Quarter
Tim Duncan has stayed in the game -- what a battler
Ray Allen is working so hard right now to get the ball. He has scored the last 5.
I have never seen Ray work this hard. This is the work of a champion caliabler player.
It is a pleasure and a honor to watch these two stars play. This is what the game is all about. These guys play with so much pride.
Brent Barry has just fouled out. Ginobili enters.
SPURS 78 SONICS 77 with 8:08 left in the 4th Quarter
TIM DUNCAN HAS JUST HURT HIS LEFT ANKLE ON A DRIVE TO THE BASKET.
This is not the same ankle he hurt during the season.
SPURS 76 SONICS 75 with 8:59 left in the 4th Quarter.
No Ray Allen to start the quarter. He checks in at 10:00
The officials are scared of Greg Popovich. He is yelling at Danny Crawford at mid court and he swallowed the whistle.
Nick Collison just missed a lefty lay-up. Ouch.
The Spurs got the ball to Tim Duncan all of the first three possessions. No touches on the next three.
IS YOUR HEART PUMPING ?? THIS IS SO CRAZY !!!!!!
SONICS 73 SPURS 72 end of 3rd Quarter
The officials just blew the call on a fast break by Wilkins he didn't touch Ginobili.
Then Collison misses a fast break lay-up when he got his feet caught
Then the next play Fortson commits a flagrant foul on Duncan. He hits both free throws.
Allen then hits a nasty 3 -- Udrich follows.
WHAT INSANE ACTION !!!!! EVERYONE IS ON THEIR FEET. EVERYONE !!!!
The Sonics forced 8 turnovers but got just 4 points off those turnovers.
The amount of missed opportunites is the second most amazing thing in this game.
THE MOST AMAZING IS THESE GUYS HAVE DONE IT AGAIN. HOW I WILL NEVER KNOW?
SONICS 67 SPURS 67 with 2:33 left in the 3rd Quarter.
HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- THEY ARE UNREAL !!!!!!!
Duncan out of the game. Spurs lead the game by 3.
Sonics still don't have a three. Allen hits the first three with 3:05
Fortson in for JJ with 3:44 left -- Spurs by 3. JJ has 4 fouls.
8 second chance opportunites in the quarter for the Spurs. However, the Spurs have turned it over.
SPURS 67 SONICS 64 with 4:11 left in the 3rd Quarter
JJ just sent two great picks that ingnited the offense. What a difference?
Have they gotten over the tough part to get back in the game.
The issue is how many possessions they have wasted in this game with turnovers and a lack of defensive rebounding. You can't do that and overcome it.
SPURS 67 SONICS 59 with 4:48 left in the 3rd Quarter
Collison in the game 6:10 left and down 6. Let's see what Mr. +/- does.
The Spurs worst +/- player Brent Barry is on the floor and Ginobili is out, their best.
Tim Duncan is so relentless. JJ blocked his shot and then TD got it back and dunked.
Way too many second shots. You can't do this in a close playoff game.
Defensive rebounding has been one of the keys in wins v. losses.
SPURS 61 SONICS 53 with 6:47 left in the 3rd Quarter.
Nate just got a technical. It happened after the Sonics battled for three extra looks but Reggie and JJ couldn't finsh. Nate felt their was a foul and it looked like contact, but it may have been as much of frustration on the lack of a finish.
Seattle can complain all they want but he fact is they aren't rebounding. The last 5 points have been on second chance opportunites. Evans and James are getting crushed again.
SPURS 55 SONICS 53 with 7:59 left in the 3rd Quarter
James has missed on the first 4 picks he has set of the quarter
AD just got a technical. That is not smart. That is the veteran. He is supposed to be the model.
Seattle is coming unglued they need something to happen to save them.
The Spurs smell blood. I think this one is going to be over in 5 minutes if they aren't careful.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
James/Evans combo 5:30 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Forston 5:40 3 touches 2 points and 1 foul drawn.
James 5:30 2 touches 4 points and 2 fouls drawn
Vitaly 3:32 1 touch 2 points 1 foul drawn
HALFTIME NOTES
The foul trouble killed the Sonics.
Ginobili enters with the Sonics up 5 and with him on the floor their was a 10 point swing.
Fortson went out with his second foul at the 9:34 mark and the Sonics lead by 6. An 11 point swing when the Sonics had to rely on James and Evans on the floor.
The Spurs offense has dicated this series and they are rolling.
You can't play Reggie Evans for extended minutes.
Damien Wilkins was -11 in the second quarter - think the Sonics miss Lewis and Radmanovic.
SPURS 52 SONICS 47 at the Half.
I am not sure Ray Allen has hit an outside shot tonight. He has been aggressive to the basket and that is how he is getting his points.
Sometimes this sounds so simple, but the ball is just not falling for Seattle right now.
I love Vitaly Potapenko he does great things when he is on the floor.
Seattle looked dead in the water and now have battled back. That is a good sign it felt like this thing could have been over by halftime.
Ray Allen's turnovers have been awful in the first half. Turnovers have been the difference in wins and losses. A bad sign for this game.
SPURS 47 SONICS 41 with 2:57 left in the 2nd Quarter.
The season is slipping away
The Spurs are on a 16-2 run.
The Spurs have scored on 11 straight possessions.
The Sonics are wearing down under the pressure. It is too hard to play without Vlady and Rashard and have offensive success and the burden is showing.
SPURS 45 SONICS 41 with 3:25 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan re-enters. The Sonics lead 36-31 when Duncan went out.
Spurs take their first lead. At 4:30 mark of the 2nd Quarter
The foul trouble is a huge issue.
Antonio Daniels doesn't seem to be on his game tonight.
Spurs have scored on 9 straight possessions
SONICS 40 SPURS 39 with 4:40 left in the 2nd Q
This thing is headed in the wrong direction right now. The Sonics are not playing smart.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
Matt, that is not true. They offered a 5 year 70 million dollar deal and it was close to getting done but fell apart at the last moment. The Sonics thought the new collective bargaining agreement was going to come to fruition which would limited other teams to just 4 year contract. That may not happen.
SONICS 38 SPURS 35 with 6:07 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan gets his 2nd foul at the 8:30 mark. Duncan only fouled out of 1 game in the regular season and 1 playoff game.
Brent Barry another brief stint. He is a shadow of the player that was in Seattle. It is looking smart to not re-sign him.
Sonics scored on 7 of thier first 8 possessions of the second quarter.
Ginobili checks back in at the 7:18 mark with the Sonics up 5. He has been a positive +/- player in every game.
Sonics defense is struggling. The Spurs have scored on 5 straight.
The Sonics have the Evans/James combo in that killed them in game #5.
SONICS 33 SPURS 25 with 8:45 left in the 2nd Quarter.
Small line-up to start the Quarter
The Sonics are pounding the ball right now instead of moving it. AD and Ray have been the culprits.
Foul trouble is a major issue. Collison has three and Fortson has two. The Sonics need those two on the floor.
LAY-UPS
The Spurs did not have a lay-up in the half court or on a fast break in the Quarter.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
Evans/James combo for 5:30. Duncan had 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Fortson for 2:40. Duncan had 3 touches and 2 points and 1 foul drawn
SONICS 25 SPURS 20 end of the 1st Quarter
Nick Collison picked up three fouls in a span of 3 possessions. That hurts. He is the only player who has been + in the +/- category for the series.
Tim Duncan finshes the quarter with no field goals and only 2 points.
Interesting Nate has played two bigs for the entire Quarter. The little line-up has been very effective in the series
Damien Wilkins denies Manu Ginobili 1 on 1 on the final possession of the Quarter.
SONICS 20 SPURS 15 with 2:56 left in the 1st Quarter
James and Ridnour check out at +5 on the +/-
Starting Line-up gets a huge thumbs up for their 1st half work.
Ray Allen has been very sloppy with the ball -- three open court turnovers.
Free throws have been a key all series and the Sonics have been to the line already 8 times.
Check out the numbers on wins v. losses at the bottom of the blog post.
Brent Barry got pulled after just three minutes on the floor.
SONICS 14 SONICS with 5:36 left in the 1st Quarter
Duncan 5 touches -- 0 points -- 0 fouls committed on him
SONICS 14 SPURS 6 with 6:00 left in the 1st Quarter
The first 6 minutes have dicatated every game of this series. Let's hope that stands.
Ray Allen has 6 points.
Brent Barry checks in. His +/- the last three games has been awful. Scan down for all the +/- of the series.
SONICS 6 SPURS 0 with 8:58 left in the 1st Quarter
Right before tip-off the arena was the loudest it has been all season.
The picks early in the game have been much better
Not sure where JJ is on the energy level
THOUGHT BEFORE TIP-OFF
Enjoy this game it has been an incredible season.
Who are we seeing for the last time at Key Arena?
Rashard Update
MRI on Rashard showed a bone bruise and tissue damage. The injury is more than just his toe.
Nonetheless, Rashard taped up and tried to go at shoot around and it hurt significantly just standing on the sidelines.
Things to keep an eye on tonight
• Start to the game
• Ginobili penetration
• Sonics starting line-up has to perform
• Banging on Duncan
• Ray Allen swinging the ball out of the double team
STARTING LINE-UPS
same as the last two nights.
EARLY STARTS MUCHO IMPORTANTE
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
Game 5: Spurs 9-4 at 6 minute mark.
+/- RATINGS FOR THE SERIES
This is no different then hockey. When the player is on the floor the team outscores or is either outscored.
SONICS +/-
Player Total
Ridnour -31
Allen -27
Lewis -27
Evans -32 (in limited minutes)
James -43 (-46 in the losses)
AD -27 (-40 in the losses)
Nick 12 (only positive player who plays regularly)
Danny -2
Flip 6
Damien -5
SPURS +/-
Player Total
Parker 35 (+58 in wins)
Ginobili 43 (only player positive in every game)
Bowen 14
Duncan 39
Nazr 13 (big in games 2 and 5)
Barry -6 (-34 in the last 3 games)
Horry -5
Robinson 32 (33 in games 1 and 2)
Udrich 9
Nestorvic 17
WINS V. LOSSES
Here is a breakdown of what has been separating wins and losses for the Sonics in this series. Some of it is a bit surprising.
On the offensive side of things ….
THE MOST MARVELOUS OF SEASONS COMES TO AN END!
SPURS WIN THE SERIES 4-2
SPURS WIN THE SERIES 4-2
SPURS 98 SONICS 96
Duncan knocks down a little hook off a Ginobili drive to give the Spurs the game winner.
Horry hits the 3. He is unreal.
Think about all the missed opportunities earlier in the game.
SPURS 90 SONICS 89 with 2:00 left in the game.
This is all about making plays at this point.
Luke and Nick just made a great play. Allen lead to Wilkins.
4 guys are guarding Ray right now, but he has to be the player who makes the decisions.
Nick is doing a solid job on Duncan
Line-up to close the Season in the Western Conference Semi-Finals: Ridnour, Daniels, Allen, Wilkins and Collison. What would have you guessed at the beginning
SPURS 86 SONICS 84 with 4:57 left in the 4th Quarter.
The coaching staff is concerned to play Colison on Duncan, but I think Colison has to be on the floor. The coaching staff is correct that he might not be able to stop Duncan and that could cost you the game. Duncan is just to long.
Collison enters the game -- let's see how it works.
Collison a rookie guarding Duncan for the season. WOW
SPURS 83 SONICS 82 with 5:49 left in the 4th Quarter
Tim Duncan has stayed in the game -- what a battler
Ray Allen is working so hard right now to get the ball. He has scored the last 5.
I have never seen Ray work this hard. This is the work of a champion caliabler player.
It is a pleasure and a honor to watch these two stars play. This is what the game is all about. These guys play with so much pride.
Brent Barry has just fouled out. Ginobili enters.
SPURS 78 SONICS 77 with 8:08 left in the 4th Quarter
TIM DUNCAN HAS JUST HURT HIS LEFT ANKLE ON A DRIVE TO THE BASKET.
This is not the same ankle he hurt during the season.
SPURS 76 SONICS 75 with 8:59 left in the 4th Quarter.
No Ray Allen to start the quarter. He checks in at 10:00
The officials are scared of Greg Popovich. He is yelling at Danny Crawford at mid court and he swallowed the whistle.
Nick Collison just missed a lefty lay-up. Ouch.
The Spurs got the ball to Tim Duncan all of the first three possessions. No touches on the next three.
IS YOUR HEART PUMPING ?? THIS IS SO CRAZY !!!!!!
SONICS 73 SPURS 72 end of 3rd Quarter
The officials just blew the call on a fast break by Wilkins he didn't touch Ginobili.
Then Collison misses a fast break lay-up when he got his feet caught
Then the next play Fortson commits a flagrant foul on Duncan. He hits both free throws.
Allen then hits a nasty 3 -- Udrich follows.
WHAT INSANE ACTION !!!!! EVERYONE IS ON THEIR FEET. EVERYONE !!!!
The Sonics forced 8 turnovers but got just 4 points off those turnovers.
The amount of missed opportunites is the second most amazing thing in this game.
THE MOST AMAZING IS THESE GUYS HAVE DONE IT AGAIN. HOW I WILL NEVER KNOW?
SONICS 67 SPURS 67 with 2:33 left in the 3rd Quarter.
HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- HOW DO THEY DO THIS -- THEY ARE UNREAL !!!!!!!
Duncan out of the game. Spurs lead the game by 3.
Sonics still don't have a three. Allen hits the first three with 3:05
Fortson in for JJ with 3:44 left -- Spurs by 3. JJ has 4 fouls.
8 second chance opportunites in the quarter for the Spurs. However, the Spurs have turned it over.
SPURS 67 SONICS 64 with 4:11 left in the 3rd Quarter
JJ just sent two great picks that ingnited the offense. What a difference?
Have they gotten over the tough part to get back in the game.
The issue is how many possessions they have wasted in this game with turnovers and a lack of defensive rebounding. You can't do that and overcome it.
SPURS 67 SONICS 59 with 4:48 left in the 3rd Quarter
Collison in the game 6:10 left and down 6. Let's see what Mr. +/- does.
The Spurs worst +/- player Brent Barry is on the floor and Ginobili is out, their best.
Tim Duncan is so relentless. JJ blocked his shot and then TD got it back and dunked.
Way too many second shots. You can't do this in a close playoff game.
Defensive rebounding has been one of the keys in wins v. losses.
SPURS 61 SONICS 53 with 6:47 left in the 3rd Quarter.
Nate just got a technical. It happened after the Sonics battled for three extra looks but Reggie and JJ couldn't finsh. Nate felt their was a foul and it looked like contact, but it may have been as much of frustration on the lack of a finish.
Seattle can complain all they want but he fact is they aren't rebounding. The last 5 points have been on second chance opportunites. Evans and James are getting crushed again.
SPURS 55 SONICS 53 with 7:59 left in the 3rd Quarter
James has missed on the first 4 picks he has set of the quarter
AD just got a technical. That is not smart. That is the veteran. He is supposed to be the model.
Seattle is coming unglued they need something to happen to save them.
The Spurs smell blood. I think this one is going to be over in 5 minutes if they aren't careful.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
James/Evans combo 5:30 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Forston 5:40 3 touches 2 points and 1 foul drawn.
James 5:30 2 touches 4 points and 2 fouls drawn
Vitaly 3:32 1 touch 2 points 1 foul drawn
HALFTIME NOTES
The foul trouble killed the Sonics.
Ginobili enters with the Sonics up 5 and with him on the floor their was a 10 point swing.
Fortson went out with his second foul at the 9:34 mark and the Sonics lead by 6. An 11 point swing when the Sonics had to rely on James and Evans on the floor.
The Spurs offense has dicated this series and they are rolling.
You can't play Reggie Evans for extended minutes.
Damien Wilkins was -11 in the second quarter - think the Sonics miss Lewis and Radmanovic.
SPURS 52 SONICS 47 at the Half.
I am not sure Ray Allen has hit an outside shot tonight. He has been aggressive to the basket and that is how he is getting his points.
Sometimes this sounds so simple, but the ball is just not falling for Seattle right now.
I love Vitaly Potapenko he does great things when he is on the floor.
Seattle looked dead in the water and now have battled back. That is a good sign it felt like this thing could have been over by halftime.
Ray Allen's turnovers have been awful in the first half. Turnovers have been the difference in wins and losses. A bad sign for this game.
SPURS 47 SONICS 41 with 2:57 left in the 2nd Quarter.
The season is slipping away
The Spurs are on a 16-2 run.
The Spurs have scored on 11 straight possessions.
The Sonics are wearing down under the pressure. It is too hard to play without Vlady and Rashard and have offensive success and the burden is showing.
SPURS 45 SONICS 41 with 3:25 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan re-enters. The Sonics lead 36-31 when Duncan went out.
Spurs take their first lead. At 4:30 mark of the 2nd Quarter
The foul trouble is a huge issue.
Antonio Daniels doesn't seem to be on his game tonight.
Spurs have scored on 9 straight possessions
SONICS 40 SPURS 39 with 4:40 left in the 2nd Q
This thing is headed in the wrong direction right now. The Sonics are not playing smart.
COMMENT FROM THE COMMENT ZONE
MattB said...
Hey, does anyone know the status of Ray Allen and his contract negociations? I have heard they offered him $100 mil and he turned it down.
Matt, that is not true. They offered a 5 year 70 million dollar deal and it was close to getting done but fell apart at the last moment. The Sonics thought the new collective bargaining agreement was going to come to fruition which would limited other teams to just 4 year contract. That may not happen.
SONICS 38 SPURS 35 with 6:07 left in the 2nd Quarter
Tim Duncan gets his 2nd foul at the 8:30 mark. Duncan only fouled out of 1 game in the regular season and 1 playoff game.
Brent Barry another brief stint. He is a shadow of the player that was in Seattle. It is looking smart to not re-sign him.
Sonics scored on 7 of thier first 8 possessions of the second quarter.
Ginobili checks back in at the 7:18 mark with the Sonics up 5. He has been a positive +/- player in every game.
Sonics defense is struggling. The Spurs have scored on 5 straight.
The Sonics have the Evans/James combo in that killed them in game #5.
SONICS 33 SPURS 25 with 8:45 left in the 2nd Quarter.
Small line-up to start the Quarter
The Sonics are pounding the ball right now instead of moving it. AD and Ray have been the culprits.
Foul trouble is a major issue. Collison has three and Fortson has two. The Sonics need those two on the floor.
LAY-UPS
The Spurs did not have a lay-up in the half court or on a fast break in the Quarter.
GUARDING TIM DUNCAN
Evans/James combo for 5:30. Duncan had 5 touches 0 points and 0 fouls drawn
Fortson for 2:40. Duncan had 3 touches and 2 points and 1 foul drawn
SONICS 25 SPURS 20 end of the 1st Quarter
Nick Collison picked up three fouls in a span of 3 possessions. That hurts. He is the only player who has been + in the +/- category for the series.
Tim Duncan finshes the quarter with no field goals and only 2 points.
Interesting Nate has played two bigs for the entire Quarter. The little line-up has been very effective in the series
Damien Wilkins denies Manu Ginobili 1 on 1 on the final possession of the Quarter.
SONICS 20 SPURS 15 with 2:56 left in the 1st Quarter
James and Ridnour check out at +5 on the +/-
Starting Line-up gets a huge thumbs up for their 1st half work.
Ray Allen has been very sloppy with the ball -- three open court turnovers.
Free throws have been a key all series and the Sonics have been to the line already 8 times.
Check out the numbers on wins v. losses at the bottom of the blog post.
Brent Barry got pulled after just three minutes on the floor.
SONICS 14 SONICS with 5:36 left in the 1st Quarter
Duncan 5 touches -- 0 points -- 0 fouls committed on him
SONICS 14 SPURS 6 with 6:00 left in the 1st Quarter
The first 6 minutes have dicatated every game of this series. Let's hope that stands.
Ray Allen has 6 points.
Brent Barry checks in. His +/- the last three games has been awful. Scan down for all the +/- of the series.
SONICS 6 SPURS 0 with 8:58 left in the 1st Quarter
Right before tip-off the arena was the loudest it has been all season.
The picks early in the game have been much better
Not sure where JJ is on the energy level
THOUGHT BEFORE TIP-OFF
Enjoy this game it has been an incredible season.
Who are we seeing for the last time at Key Arena?
Rashard Update
MRI on Rashard showed a bone bruise and tissue damage. The injury is more than just his toe.
Nonetheless, Rashard taped up and tried to go at shoot around and it hurt significantly just standing on the sidelines.
Things to keep an eye on tonight
• Start to the game
• Ginobili penetration
• Sonics starting line-up has to perform
• Banging on Duncan
• Ray Allen swinging the ball out of the double team
STARTING LINE-UPS
same as the last two nights.
EARLY STARTS MUCHO IMPORTANTE
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
Game 5: Spurs 9-4 at 6 minute mark.
+/- RATINGS FOR THE SERIES
This is no different then hockey. When the player is on the floor the team outscores or is either outscored.
SONICS +/-
Player Total
Ridnour -31
Allen -27
Lewis -27
Evans -32 (in limited minutes)
James -43 (-46 in the losses)
AD -27 (-40 in the losses)
Nick 12 (only positive player who plays regularly)
Danny -2
Flip 6
Damien -5
SPURS +/-
Player Total
Parker 35 (+58 in wins)
Ginobili 43 (only player positive in every game)
Bowen 14
Duncan 39
Nazr 13 (big in games 2 and 5)
Barry -6 (-34 in the last 3 games)
Horry -5
Robinson 32 (33 in games 1 and 2)
Udrich 9
Nestorvic 17
WINS V. LOSSES
Here is a breakdown of what has been separating wins and losses for the Sonics in this series. Some of it is a bit surprising.
On the offensive side of things ….
- Good offensive rebounding has not lead to wins. In wins they are grabbing just 24% of the offensive rebounds, but in losses they are at 41%.
- Shooting hasn’t been a big issue either. In wins they are shooting 45% and in losses 44%. A better indicator is effective field goal % which accounts for 3pt shooting and in wins they are 48% and in losses 46%. This is not the discrepancy you would imagine.
- The big indicator has been turnovers. In wins the Sonics are turning it over just 12% of their possessions and in losses 17% of their possessions.
- The other indicator has been free throws in the 2 wins the Sonics have gone to the line an average of 30 times a game and in the two losses they have averaged 22.3 free throws a game.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
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 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
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
SPURS TAKE A 3-2 SERIES LEAD
GINOBILI GOLDEN IN SPURS WIN
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
Sunday, May 15, 2005
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 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
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
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.
SONICS WIN IN COMMANDING FASHION
WHAT A PERFORMANCE !!!!!!
SERIES IS TIED 2-2
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...With 1:30 left in the quarter the Sonics have 10 points off 14 turnovers.
how many points off t/o's for the sonics?
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...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.
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
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.
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