Just one series remains possible of ending in a sweep after the eight games in Round 1, Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs. From an ejection with future ramifications in the capital, to a thriller in Portland, a clutch buzzer-beating winner and more, here's all of the action, highlights, stats and recaps from the next installment of playoffs.
After the proceedings from Game 2, five series were tied, while three series were currently lead by Miami, Washington and Portland respectively. Full coverage for Game 2, Round 1 here »
However after the dust had settled in Game 3, only one series was still in contention to be swept - so it goes without saying, these series are shaping up to be something exciting.
However after the dust had settled in Game 3, only one series was still in contention to be swept - so it goes without saying, these series are shaping up to be something exciting.
Here, you'll find recaps from each game in Game 3 from Round 1, with full scores, information, and the key stats like highest points and rebounds. There's also video highlights from all the key bits in the game with everything you need to know.
Teague Lights Up Pacers To Leave Indiana Frustrated
Score: Indiana Pacers 85 - 98 Atlanta Hawks
Location: Phillips Arena, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Date: Thursday 24 April 2014
Tip-off: 7:00pm ET (12:00am BST Fri. morning UK)
Highest points: Jeff Teague (ATL), 22 pts.
Highest rebounds: Paul George (IND), Paul Millsap (ATL), 14 rebs.
Highest assists: Jeff Teague (ATL), 10 asts.
Current series score: Pacers 1 - 2 Hawks
Current series score: Pacers 1 - 2 Hawks
As chants of "overrated" filled the Phillips Arena in Atlanta, the Hawks were, yet again, on course to defeat Indiana Pacers, emerging the #1 seed into further doubt.
Jeff Teague, who's appearing as a true and key contender, scored game-high points of 22, while also dishing out the most assists of 10, some of which went to Kyle Korver, who hit four three-pointers over the course of the game.
Atlanta hit 10 three-pointers in total over the second half of play, taking the game well out of reach for the Pacers.
There was some controversy and debates in a play where Jeff Teague scored a three-pointer. However, speculation that he was on the line. After video review the referees ruled in favor of Teague, with his foot being behind the line when the ball was released. That wouldn't really matter, with the Hawks winning by a 13-point margin.
Despite crashing 14 boards, Paul George's subdued game saw him being locked down to just 12 points and 3-11 shooting. While Luis Scolia scored 17 off the bench and Stephenson scored 21, Pacers were not good enough.
After a below-par performance Paul George acknowledged the Pacers' problems, commenting that "our toughness is questionable right now".
Hawks key advantage would come in the third quarter where they gained the upperhand. Going into the fourth quart leading 67 - 58.
Kyle Korver hit a three to extend the advantage to 12 points with a few minutes remaining, and Pacers were left scratching their heads as the clock ticked down.
For a #1 seed its simply not good enough from the Pacers. Anyone affiliated will be overshadowed by disappointment after the game. Their game 2 revamp should have acted as a boost going forward for Pacers to take control, though a strong looking Hawks were a well-oiled machine. Paul George needs consistent performances like Game 2, especially in the playoffs, if Pacers want to establish themselves. They can't allow hiccups to proceed, or one will be big enough to put their season into a tailspin.
Jeff Teague, who's appearing as a true and key contender, scored game-high points of 22, while also dishing out the most assists of 10, some of which went to Kyle Korver, who hit four three-pointers over the course of the game.
Atlanta hit 10 three-pointers in total over the second half of play, taking the game well out of reach for the Pacers.
There was some controversy and debates in a play where Jeff Teague scored a three-pointer. However, speculation that he was on the line. After video review the referees ruled in favor of Teague, with his foot being behind the line when the ball was released. That wouldn't really matter, with the Hawks winning by a 13-point margin.
Despite crashing 14 boards, Paul George's subdued game saw him being locked down to just 12 points and 3-11 shooting. While Luis Scolia scored 17 off the bench and Stephenson scored 21, Pacers were not good enough.
After a below-par performance Paul George acknowledged the Pacers' problems, commenting that "our toughness is questionable right now".
Hawks key advantage would come in the third quarter where they gained the upperhand. Going into the fourth quart leading 67 - 58.
Kyle Korver hit a three to extend the advantage to 12 points with a few minutes remaining, and Pacers were left scratching their heads as the clock ticked down.
For a #1 seed its simply not good enough from the Pacers. Anyone affiliated will be overshadowed by disappointment after the game. Their game 2 revamp should have acted as a boost going forward for Pacers to take control, though a strong looking Hawks were a well-oiled machine. Paul George needs consistent performances like Game 2, especially in the playoffs, if Pacers want to establish themselves. They can't allow hiccups to proceed, or one will be big enough to put their season into a tailspin.
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| Jeff Teague drives to the rim while Paul George's woes continue USA TODAY SPORTS |
Grizzlies Take Thunder To Overtime And Win Again
Score: Oklahoma City Thunder 95 - 98 Memphis Grizzlies
Location: FedEx Forum, Memphis, TN, USA.
Date: Thursday 24 April 2014
Tip-off: 8:00pm ET (1:00am BST, Fri. morning UK)
Highest points: Kevin Durant (OKC), Russell Westbrook (OKC), 30 pts.
Highest rebounds: Russell Westbrook (OKC), 13 rebs.
Highest assists: Zach Randolph (MEM), 6 asts.
Current series score: Thunder 1 - 2 Grizzlies
Current series score: Thunder 1 - 2 Grizzlies
Thunder once again pulled the short straw in overtime, as the Grizzlies held on for a narrow win in overtime at the FedEx Forum in Memphis.
Russell Westbrook hit a clutch four-point play in overtime but it was not enough to halt Memphis' incredible home run, with 15 straight wins at their homecourt.
Kevin Durant, like Russell Westbrook, scored 30 points, although Durant's big stat was compromised missing all three-point attempts with just 10-27 shooting. Meanwhile Westbrook went 9-26 from the field.
Leading by 17 during the game, the Grizzlies almost let that slip as they tied with Thunder lighting it up in the remaining 7 minutes.
A remarkable 17-0 run from Thunder, would take it to another overtime like Game 2, but Thunder could not do enough.
In overtime, Courtney Lee hit three of fourth free throws in the final 10 seconds to seal the game for Memphis, triumph for his side in another thrilling contest.
Oklahoma's first lead since scoring nine points in the game, after Kevin Durant's three-point play gave Thunder an 88-85 lead in overtime.
Eventually Memphis would get back on track with good shooting from the line, going on to take the lead in the series.
It's shaping up to be an absolutely incredible series between Memphis and Oklahoma. Two consecutive overtime finishes in games that go down to the wire prove both teams have a lot more to give. Kevin Durant, if in search for MVP, will need to be more consistent down the stretch as his three-point attempts, if made, would have saw Thunder past unscaved. Onto game 3, hotly anticipated by many-a-basketball-fan.
Russell Westbrook hit a clutch four-point play in overtime but it was not enough to halt Memphis' incredible home run, with 15 straight wins at their homecourt.
Kevin Durant, like Russell Westbrook, scored 30 points, although Durant's big stat was compromised missing all three-point attempts with just 10-27 shooting. Meanwhile Westbrook went 9-26 from the field.
Leading by 17 during the game, the Grizzlies almost let that slip as they tied with Thunder lighting it up in the remaining 7 minutes.
A remarkable 17-0 run from Thunder, would take it to another overtime like Game 2, but Thunder could not do enough.
In overtime, Courtney Lee hit three of fourth free throws in the final 10 seconds to seal the game for Memphis, triumph for his side in another thrilling contest.
Oklahoma's first lead since scoring nine points in the game, after Kevin Durant's three-point play gave Thunder an 88-85 lead in overtime.
Eventually Memphis would get back on track with good shooting from the line, going on to take the lead in the series.
It's shaping up to be an absolutely incredible series between Memphis and Oklahoma. Two consecutive overtime finishes in games that go down to the wire prove both teams have a lot more to give. Kevin Durant, if in search for MVP, will need to be more consistent down the stretch as his three-point attempts, if made, would have saw Thunder past unscaved. Onto game 3, hotly anticipated by many-a-basketball-fan.
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| It's setting up to be a thrilling series as Memphis take a 2-1 lead AP |
Griffin Steps Up As Clippers Score Narrow Lead Against Warriors In Oakland
Score: Los Angeles Clippers 98 - 96 Golden State Warriors
Location: Oracle Arena, Oakland, CA, USA.
Date: Thursday 24 April 2014
Tip-off: 10:30pm ET (3:30am BST, Fri. morning UK)
Highest points: Blake Griffin (LAC), 32 pts.
Highest rebounds: DeAndre Jordan (LAC), 22 rebs.
Highest assists: Steph Curry (GSW), 15 asts.
Current series score: Clippers 2 - 1 Warriors
Current series score: Clippers 2 - 1 Warriors
Clippers triumphed across the state from their home court as Chris Paul, DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin proved the pivotal centrepiece for Los Angeles' narrow win.
After Warriors took homecourt advantage at the Staples in Game 1, Clippers fought hard to take it back, contrary to their blowout win in Game 2.
Blake Griffin's game high 32 points was another contribution to his outstanding total of 83 points over the first three games of the series. He combined with DeAndre Jordan to create a brittle front duo shutting down Klay Thompson and Steph Curry, while powering their way to an 18-point lead.
Steph Curry missed a step-back 3 pointer over Chris Paul, after hitting some clutch shots beyond the arc prior, and no foul was given with Clippers gaining the victory.
The backcourt duo of Thompson and Curry, although locked down in a difficult game, managed to produce some late jitters for Clippers.
Just like the fast-paced action, it looks like the series will continue to go back and forth. Doc Rivers comments where he stated that Clippers could play better was of course accurate, considering Warriors were far from their best, a direct result of the tough defense to their pivotal backcourt tandem of Klay Thompson and Steph Curry. There was some great sense of unity for the Clippers, who showed signs of Championship character and are making a statement to go much further in the Play-offs this time. When top players like Jordan, Griffin and Paul hit the top mark, Clippers are a scary team.
After Warriors took homecourt advantage at the Staples in Game 1, Clippers fought hard to take it back, contrary to their blowout win in Game 2.
Blake Griffin's game high 32 points was another contribution to his outstanding total of 83 points over the first three games of the series. He combined with DeAndre Jordan to create a brittle front duo shutting down Klay Thompson and Steph Curry, while powering their way to an 18-point lead.
Steph Curry missed a step-back 3 pointer over Chris Paul, after hitting some clutch shots beyond the arc prior, and no foul was given with Clippers gaining the victory.
The backcourt duo of Thompson and Curry, although locked down in a difficult game, managed to produce some late jitters for Clippers.
Just like the fast-paced action, it looks like the series will continue to go back and forth. Doc Rivers comments where he stated that Clippers could play better was of course accurate, considering Warriors were far from their best, a direct result of the tough defense to their pivotal backcourt tandem of Klay Thompson and Steph Curry. There was some great sense of unity for the Clippers, who showed signs of Championship character and are making a statement to go much further in the Play-offs this time. When top players like Jordan, Griffin and Paul hit the top mark, Clippers are a scary team.
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| Jordan and Griffin combined to silence the avid Warrior fans USA TODAY |
Nets Go Into Playoff Mode To Lead Series
Score: Toronto Raptors 98 - 102 Brooklyn Nets
Location: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
Date: Friday 25 April 2014
Tip-off: 7:00pm ET (12:00am BST, Sat. morning UK)
Highest points: DeMar Derozan (TOR), 30 pts.
Highest rebounds: Jonas Valanciunas (TOR), 10 rebs.
Highest assists: Deron Williams (BKN), 8 asts.
Current series score: Raptors 1 - 2 Nets
Current series score: Raptors 1 - 2 Nets
Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett did exactly what they were supposed to after being acquired from the Boston Celtics in the postseason - they stepped up and put them into playoff mode with a 102-98 win over the Raptors.
DeMar DeRozan yet again proved a tough challenge for the Raptors, though Joe Johnson was Nets' highest scorer with 29 points.
Brooklyn came close to squandering a 15-point lead in the fourth quarter, though Johnson sealed the win with free-throws in the final five seconds.
Nets' point-guard Deron Williams contributed 22 points and dished out 8 assists, but the pivotal weight came down to the Nets' veterans in Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce.
After standing out in Game 1, to a below-par Game 2 performance, Pierce stepped back up with 18 points. His fellow veteran Kevin Garnett was key in the final plays that lead to wrapping up the win.
Raptors were facing an uphill climb at a raucous Barclaus Center after Kyle Lowry was fouled out, to conclude his 15-point game.
Trailing by 15 points in the fourth quarter, Raptors edged close to a comeback but they fell off the mark.
This series is proving to be another really close one. Neither team has lead by more than five points late in the third over the two playoff games, so Nets winning here was quite significant. There seemed to be a big euphoria and somewhat edge to Brookyln at the Barclays Center, with Pierce and Garnett standing tall on their homecourt - Nets' win here gives them a huge edge.
DeMar DeRozan yet again proved a tough challenge for the Raptors, though Joe Johnson was Nets' highest scorer with 29 points.
Brooklyn came close to squandering a 15-point lead in the fourth quarter, though Johnson sealed the win with free-throws in the final five seconds.
Nets' point-guard Deron Williams contributed 22 points and dished out 8 assists, but the pivotal weight came down to the Nets' veterans in Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce.
After standing out in Game 1, to a below-par Game 2 performance, Pierce stepped back up with 18 points. His fellow veteran Kevin Garnett was key in the final plays that lead to wrapping up the win.
Raptors were facing an uphill climb at a raucous Barclaus Center after Kyle Lowry was fouled out, to conclude his 15-point game.
Trailing by 15 points in the fourth quarter, Raptors edged close to a comeback but they fell off the mark.
This series is proving to be another really close one. Neither team has lead by more than five points late in the third over the two playoff games, so Nets winning here was quite significant. There seemed to be a big euphoria and somewhat edge to Brookyln at the Barclays Center, with Pierce and Garnett standing tall on their homecourt - Nets' win here gives them a huge edge.
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| Veterans take the stand for Nets - they are serving their purpose GETTY IMAGES |
Bulls Fight Back In US Capital
Score: Chicago Bulls 100 - 97 Washington Wizards
Location: Verizon Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Date: Friday 25 April 2014
Tip-off: 8:00pm ET (1:00am BST, Sat. morning UK)
Highest points: Mike Dunleavy (CHI), 35 pts.
Highest rebounds: Marcin Gortat (WAS), Trevor Ariza (WAS), 11 rebs.
Highest assists: D.J. Augustin (CHI), John Wall (WAS), 7 asts.
Current series score: Bulls 1 - 2
After Washington swept Chicago on the first two games on the road, Chicago put on a big response back at the Verizon Center to give them back hope going into the remainder of their best-of-seven series.
Mike Dunleavy was on fire from the three-point line, hitting them at will and leaving Wizards withered.
After hitting them so well in the first, Bradley Beal cut him down with a big block in the second half, only for Dunleavy to fight back and score the pivotal three pointer with 24 seconds remaining.
Going 8-10 from three point range Dunleavy stepped up in his 12th career playoff game and said that "We've (Bulls have) got Sunday for sure", indicating their desire to win Game 4.
Bradley Beal, who "guaranteed" falsely that Dunleavy would not score any more three-pointers in the second half, score 13 in the final phase, alas in vein as Wizards succumb to the bolstering Bulls.
Nene, who had been vital for Washington in Game 1 and Game 2, may not go onto play Game 4 after being ejected. The Brazillian forced a head-to-head confrontation with Butler, grabbing him by the back of his neck in the altercation.
It was the most significant backstory to the game whereby Nene could be facing a fine or suspension. The lack of his presence will be a big blow to the Wizards.
After a close game, Dunleavy stepped up with just a shot clock left and hit one more three, breaking triple-digits for the Bulls and putting them well back into the game.
A win in DC is absolutely crucial for the Bulls, as they were disappointed for back-to-back losses back home. It was clear in their previous losses that they were lacking a major scorer down the stretch, and the 33-year-old Mike Dunleavy emerged as it for the game. They'll hope they can access the untapped potential of Bulls' scoring and tie the series to snatch homecourt advantage from the Wizards.
Current series score: Bulls 1 - 2
After Washington swept Chicago on the first two games on the road, Chicago put on a big response back at the Verizon Center to give them back hope going into the remainder of their best-of-seven series.
Mike Dunleavy was on fire from the three-point line, hitting them at will and leaving Wizards withered.
After hitting them so well in the first, Bradley Beal cut him down with a big block in the second half, only for Dunleavy to fight back and score the pivotal three pointer with 24 seconds remaining.
Going 8-10 from three point range Dunleavy stepped up in his 12th career playoff game and said that "We've (Bulls have) got Sunday for sure", indicating their desire to win Game 4.
Bradley Beal, who "guaranteed" falsely that Dunleavy would not score any more three-pointers in the second half, score 13 in the final phase, alas in vein as Wizards succumb to the bolstering Bulls.
Nene, who had been vital for Washington in Game 1 and Game 2, may not go onto play Game 4 after being ejected. The Brazillian forced a head-to-head confrontation with Butler, grabbing him by the back of his neck in the altercation.
It was the most significant backstory to the game whereby Nene could be facing a fine or suspension. The lack of his presence will be a big blow to the Wizards.
After a close game, Dunleavy stepped up with just a shot clock left and hit one more three, breaking triple-digits for the Bulls and putting them well back into the game.
A win in DC is absolutely crucial for the Bulls, as they were disappointed for back-to-back losses back home. It was clear in their previous losses that they were lacking a major scorer down the stretch, and the 33-year-old Mike Dunleavy emerged as it for the game. They'll hope they can access the untapped potential of Bulls' scoring and tie the series to snatch homecourt advantage from the Wizards.
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| Dunleavy may have saved the Bulls' season USA TODAY SPORTS |
Houston's Harden Hammers Blazers In Portland
Score: Houston Rockets 121 - 116 Portland Trail Blazers
Location: Moda Center, Portland, OR, USA.
Date: Friday 25 April 2014
Tip-off: 10:30pm ET (3:30am BST, Sat. morning UK)
Highest points: James Harden (HOU), 37 pts.
Highest rebounds: Dwight Howard (HOU), 14 rebs.
Highest assists: James Harden (HOU), Damian Lillard (POR), 6 asts.
Current series score: Rockets 1 - 2 Blazers
Current series score: Rockets 1 - 2 Blazers
It was another thriller between Portland and Houston this time, Rockets would prevail, not through their star power of James Harden or Dwight Howard, but essentially defined by rookie Troy Daniels.
Rockets were eager to halt Portland, who had scored back-to-back wins over, and they took it to overtime. In the remaining 11 seconds, Troy Daniels, who made his pro-debut only in March, nailed a three-pointer to sink the Trail Blazers.
James Harden was in a slump going into Game 3, with 14-for-47 shooting from the field in the opening game. This would all change instantly though as he scored his career-high points number in the playoffs. He combined with Chandler Parsons to score back-to-back three pointers, opening up a 71-65 lead halfway through the third quarter.
Portland would be rallied on by avid fans in attendance, managing to lead a comeback when Harden gave Rockets a 90-80 lead with with 10 minutes left on the clock.
Damian Lillard managed to put Portland back into the game, making successive free-throws, a jumper and a shot when he was fouled. Soon after his layup put Portland 107-105 up, before James Harden hit four consecutive free throws. Batum would tie it up to take it to overtime.
Batum missed a three pointer in response to Troy Daniel's long-range shot, before Harden sealed it with a pair of free-throws to secure a five-point win.
Another thriller and crucial for Houston to take a win in Portland. After losing what was touted a "must win" from Rockets' guard James Harden, they are on course again with a win here. Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge were again on top, although they were outdone by Harden, Asik and Howard - with Daniels' final push. Thrilling game, Game 4 cannot come faster.
Rockets were eager to halt Portland, who had scored back-to-back wins over, and they took it to overtime. In the remaining 11 seconds, Troy Daniels, who made his pro-debut only in March, nailed a three-pointer to sink the Trail Blazers.
James Harden was in a slump going into Game 3, with 14-for-47 shooting from the field in the opening game. This would all change instantly though as he scored his career-high points number in the playoffs. He combined with Chandler Parsons to score back-to-back three pointers, opening up a 71-65 lead halfway through the third quarter.
Portland would be rallied on by avid fans in attendance, managing to lead a comeback when Harden gave Rockets a 90-80 lead with with 10 minutes left on the clock.
Damian Lillard managed to put Portland back into the game, making successive free-throws, a jumper and a shot when he was fouled. Soon after his layup put Portland 107-105 up, before James Harden hit four consecutive free throws. Batum would tie it up to take it to overtime.
Batum missed a three pointer in response to Troy Daniel's long-range shot, before Harden sealed it with a pair of free-throws to secure a five-point win.
Another thriller and crucial for Houston to take a win in Portland. After losing what was touted a "must win" from Rockets' guard James Harden, they are on course again with a win here. Damian Lillard and LaMarcus Aldridge were again on top, although they were outdone by Harden, Asik and Howard - with Daniels' final push. Thrilling game, Game 4 cannot come faster.
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| The latest installment to the series was fittingly another thriller USA TODAY |
James Heats Up For Miami As They Ease Past Bobcats
Score: Miami Heat 98 - 85 Charlotte Bobcats
Location: Time Warner Cable Arena, Charlotte, NC, USA.
Date: Saturday 26 April 2014
Tip-off: 7:00pm ET (12:00am BST, Sun. morning UK)
Highest points: LeBron James (MIA), 30 pts.
Highest rebounds: LeBron James (MIA), 10 rebs.
Highest assists: LeBron James (MIA), Dwyane Wade (MIA), Luke Ridnour (CHA), 6 asts.
Current series score: Heat 3 - 0 Bobcats
Current series score: Heat 3 - 0 Bobcats
LeBron James stood tall with his Miami Heat teammates beside him as his 30 point and 10 rebound game put the Heat just one win away from sweeping the Charlotte Bobcats.
Dwyane Wade, who is managing to find his playoff typical form, contributed 17 points to the Heat's total.
Meanwhile, Al Jefferson, who has been nursing an injury over the season, scored 20 points, but Bobcats were no match for the Heat, and are still in search for their first ever playoff win in franchise history.
Miami eased off for the first half as Charlotte took a long lead, though as halftime approached the visitors reached another gear, closing the half on a 16-4 run, after Chalmers' 3 pointer put them 2 points up, 42-20.
As the game was wrapping up, LeBron James was charging through an open lane towards the rim, before going for the one-handed dunk - for LeBron, not so rare? Well, the Heat forward looked towards Michael Jordan mid-air before dunking ferociously. Now that's a statement.
Dwyane Wade, who is managing to find his playoff typical form, contributed 17 points to the Heat's total.
Meanwhile, Al Jefferson, who has been nursing an injury over the season, scored 20 points, but Bobcats were no match for the Heat, and are still in search for their first ever playoff win in franchise history.
Miami eased off for the first half as Charlotte took a long lead, though as halftime approached the visitors reached another gear, closing the half on a 16-4 run, after Chalmers' 3 pointer put them 2 points up, 42-20.
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| Lesson learned: LeBron doesn't need to look at the rim during take-off SB NATION |
As the game was wrapping up, LeBron James was charging through an open lane towards the rim, before going for the one-handed dunk - for LeBron, not so rare? Well, the Heat forward looked towards Michael Jordan mid-air before dunking ferociously. Now that's a statement.
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| LeBron steps up in Charlotte in search for Heat's third consecutive title GETTY IMAGES |
Carter Buzzer Beater Edges Mavericks Past Spurs
Score: San Antonio Spurs 108 - 109 Dallas Mavericks
Location: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
Date: Saturday 26 April 2014
Tip-off: 4:30pm ET (9:30 pm BST UK)
Highest points: Monta Ellis (DAL), 29 pts.
Highest rebounds: Thiago Splitter (SAS), 13 rebs.
Highest assists: Jose Calderon (DAL), 9 asts.
Current series score: Spurs 1 - 2 Mavericks
Location: American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
Date: Saturday 26 April 2014
Tip-off: 4:30pm ET (9:30 pm BST UK)
Highest points: Monta Ellis (DAL), 29 pts.
Highest rebounds: Thiago Splitter (SAS), 13 rebs.
Highest assists: Jose Calderon (DAL), 9 asts.
Current series score: Spurs 1 - 2 Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks welcomed Spurs to the American Airlines Center in Dallas with a hotly contested battle, and sent them out in spectacular fashion courtesy of Vince Carter.
Dallas inbounded with 1.7 seconds remaining, falling to Carter, who nailed the contested shot from the corner as the Dallas crowd erupted in Euphoria.
The winning shot came after Manu Ginobli's late layup that put San Antonio 108-106 up, prompting the hosts to call a timeout. The Argentine worked off a screen over Tim Duncan to follow a prolonged dribble, as his shot trickled of the rim before going in.
Ginobli's layup and Carter's winner would follow a tense final minute, seeing Ellis' three-point play after being fouled by Diaw before the latter scored to put Spurs back in front. Ellis hit a floater before Ginobli hit the layup, and the rest is, history.
Monta Ellis was key in orchestrating the win for the Mavericks, as his 29 points helped to keep the Spurs in a fully fledged view throughout the final quarter.
Dirk Nowitzki, scoring 18 points, was though far from his best, with the Spurs managing to contain him. That wouldn't phase his teammates, as proven.
Spurs assembled a run which wrapped up the first quarter with the visitors leading 34 - 27. Though, Tony Parker, scoring 19 points, would only register 2 points in the second half of the game.
Despite the Spurs run to put them back in control after Mavericks' hot start, it was a much closer affair in the second half before the Mavericks would edge it by just one point.
Veterans can often be metaphorically overlooked as slow and boring, but this says otherwise. A thrilling game and a buzzer beater - that's all you really need to say. Vince Carter's three-pointer was incredible, beating the buzzer with a shot like that means so much more in the playoffs. Lets hope there are many more to come because that was just euphoric.
Dallas inbounded with 1.7 seconds remaining, falling to Carter, who nailed the contested shot from the corner as the Dallas crowd erupted in Euphoria.
The winning shot came after Manu Ginobli's late layup that put San Antonio 108-106 up, prompting the hosts to call a timeout. The Argentine worked off a screen over Tim Duncan to follow a prolonged dribble, as his shot trickled of the rim before going in.
Ginobli's layup and Carter's winner would follow a tense final minute, seeing Ellis' three-point play after being fouled by Diaw before the latter scored to put Spurs back in front. Ellis hit a floater before Ginobli hit the layup, and the rest is, history.
Monta Ellis was key in orchestrating the win for the Mavericks, as his 29 points helped to keep the Spurs in a fully fledged view throughout the final quarter.
Dirk Nowitzki, scoring 18 points, was though far from his best, with the Spurs managing to contain him. That wouldn't phase his teammates, as proven.
Spurs assembled a run which wrapped up the first quarter with the visitors leading 34 - 27. Though, Tony Parker, scoring 19 points, would only register 2 points in the second half of the game.
Despite the Spurs run to put them back in control after Mavericks' hot start, it was a much closer affair in the second half before the Mavericks would edge it by just one point.
Veterans can often be metaphorically overlooked as slow and boring, but this says otherwise. A thrilling game and a buzzer beater - that's all you really need to say. Vince Carter's three-pointer was incredible, beating the buzzer with a shot like that means so much more in the playoffs. Lets hope there are many more to come because that was just euphoric.
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| Vince Carter's game winner puts Mavs ahead in the series GETTY IMAGES |
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After the eight games, we now know that that at least seven games will be featured in Game 5 as the best-of-seven series continues.
More drama, more superb basketball... bring on the next games.
More drama, more superb basketball... bring on the next games.
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