Game Thread #71- at Orlando

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 4:31 PM CDT Comment 89 comments

The Magic are the East's three seed, so this should be a tough road game. They would be tied with Dallas and Golden State for the last two spots in the West.

Any volunteers for the recap?

Might we see Brent Barry? Who's excited?

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Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I'm excited to see Bones in the black and silver again, the team morale will get a boost, especially after this score:

Spurs 97
Magic 90

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 24, 2008 6:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

We always seem to lose nail-biters in Orlando, better win this one.

by Linix129 on Mar 24, 2008 7:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Since all of our recent problems started when Bones was released (seriously, look it up), I'm anticipating a huge win here. The ship has been righted folks, and I'm confident in that.

SPURS 91
magic 83

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 24, 2008 10:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Magic 103
Spurs 99

"If you dig it, do it. If you really dig it, do it twice." - Jim Croce

by John E Sanford on Mar 25, 2008 12:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Spurs 101
Magic 94

by 4Him on Mar 25, 2008 11:47 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

As always, thanks to cherny from Manu's forum for the info and his help.

6:00 PM SA - 8:00 PM ARG

47-23 ............................................. 46-26

Streak:
3 G ................................................. 1 L

Home record:
28-6 ................................................ 23-13

Road record:
19-17 ............................................... 23-13

Last 10:
4-6 ................................................. 7-3

----------------------------------------------

(Sort of) Interesting facts:

► Past encounters:

This season they've met only once:
→ 21/Nov/07 - SA 128 | ORL 110 - @ SA

► The Magic come from winning 10 of the last 12 at home.

► Orlando has been playing well lately (7-3 in the last 10). However, 6 of its last 8 opponents have had a .500 or worse record.

► Dwight Howard, the NBA rebounding leader with 14.4 rpg, is going through a bad streak. In the last 3 games he's averaging 9.0 ppg while taking only 18 shots in total. For the season he's the Magic's high scorer with 21.1 ppg.

► Howard has has good numbers against the Spurs in the past. He averages 23.8 ppg in the last 4 games against us. In the last game, on November 21st, Howard finished with 34 points and 16 rebounds - it wasn't enough, however, against TP's 32 and Manu's 27.

► The Spurs come from winning on the road against a team with a positive record for the first time since February 19th, when they beat the Bobcats at Charlotte. This time the victims were the Mavericks on Sunday.

► Tony averages 21.3 ppg in the last 7 games. However, the key to the Spurs' improvement has been its defense. They've allowed 91.0 points per game and have outdefended the rest of the conference in the FG department, allowing only 33.7%.

► The Magic shoot 25.1 3 pointers per game, becoming the second team in the NBA that shoots the most from behind the arc. Rashard Lewis, Torkoglu and Keith Bogans, all Magic players, are amongst the best 12 3pt shooters in the league.

► Next games for the Spurs:
→ @ Orlando - Tuesday 25/Mar. - TODAY
→ Vs. LA Clippers - Wednesday 26/Mar.
→ Vs. Minnesota - Friday 28/Mar.
→ Vs. Houston - Sunday 30/Mar.
→ Vs. Golden State - Tuesday 1/Apr.
→ @ Utah - Friday 4/Apr.
→ @ Portland - Sunday 6/Apr.
→ Vs. Phoenix - Wednesday 9/Abr.

----------------------------------------------

Probable starting lineup:

T. Parker M. Finley B. Bowen T. Duncan F. Oberto
P. Guard S. Guard S. Forward P. Forward Center
18.6 PPG 9.4 PPG 5.9 PPG 19.6 PPG 4.7 PPG
3.1 RPG 3.1 RPG 2.8 RPG 11.5 RPG 5.3 RPG
5.8 APG 1.4 APG 1.2 APG 3.0 APG 1.1 APG

----------------------------------------------

Transmissions:

NBA League Pass broadcasts this one.

You can find the links in one of the sites below. (If one of them doesn't work for you, try the other. It can be tricky to connect sometimes because of traffic.)
ChannelSurfing
Andromedanet
Roja Directa
Stooge TV → Old games available
Janeiro Nation → Old games available

...And if there's no other choice:
WOAI - San Antonio Spurs

by LatinD on Mar 25, 2008 12:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Spurs 110
Magic 100

by LatinD on Mar 25, 2008 12:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

And yes, I'm excited to see Bones back. It would be great if he has a good first game, and came out shooting.

by LatinD on Mar 25, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

The score 103-76 just popped up in my head. I'm not too sure about that... I think one team will score 88. The high-scorer for the game will have either 34 or 26 points.

by DeadRatSam on Mar 25, 2008 12:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I don't think the score is gonna happen but the high-scorer is a pretty good guess.

by Flogo on Mar 25, 2008 5:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Oh yeah, I am glad to see Bones back. When he plays well, we win.

We need this win to restore some confidence.

-Hannibal ad portas (Hannibal is at the gate!)

by ClintonsCigar on Mar 25, 2008 5:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Not much defense being played right now.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 6:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Damn, Duncan just picked up foul #2. Manu time!!!!

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 6:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

FinnnnnnnnDogggggggggg!!!!!!!!!!

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 6:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

No Barry

The Magic's broadcast crew reports Brent Barry is inactive tonight.

Third Quarter Collapse: An SB Nation Blog for Orlando Magic Fans

by Ben Q Rock on Mar 25, 2008 6:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Barry started tonight wearing a Finley suit. CIA.

by LatinD on Mar 25, 2008 7:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Tony is still struggling with his J, at least he is dishing.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 7:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

That was a clear goaltend.

by BUTD on Mar 25, 2008 7:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Well, the normal 3rd quarter collapse is under way.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 7:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

FinnnnnnnnDogggggggggg!!!!!!!!!!

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 7:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

All he needed was Stampler to starting ripping on him again.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Damn, Finley has 20 points and is shooting 8-12 from the field? Damn, it's like he is motivated or something.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 7:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I am so fucking tired of seeing Manu HAVE to turn the other cheek because the league office is full of cowards and media whores.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Yeah, I'll get on board with that sentiment.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 8:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

...motion seconded and passed. Years from now, there better be some documentaries about Manu, cause he's had to put up with more ingrained racial bullshit than anyone since Jackie Robinson.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 25, 2008 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

You people are fucking nutzo crazy wack jobs. Howard barely touched him.

by sungo on Mar 25, 2008 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

He pulled him down. If you don't change your tune Powell, you'll find yourself next on KT's hit list. Do you hear me?

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 9:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

You people are just about to peeve me right the hell off. Somebody post the YT link when it's available.

by sungo on Mar 25, 2008 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

You're delirious with blogging power, Matthew. It's not even so much #20 v Howard this week as much as the fact that every game, Manu is sodomized getting into the lane. He has over and over again proven that he's a star, but never seems to get 'star-calls.' Even more so, FFs or malicious fouls against him get not just no-calls, but get completely ignored. A bleeding Manu rises off the court at least once a week, and seldom is it acknowledged with a FF or even FTs. It's frustrating to watch. Surely you don't truly believe that this opinion is crazy?!?!!! I was under the impression that you were a loyal soldier to the Manu.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 26, 2008 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Manu doesn't get "protected" by the officials because they don't trust him. Though the egregiousness of his flopping has declined dramatically, he still exaggerates contact on a nightly basis. This Dwight Howard thing is a perfect example. Howard barely tugs on his shoulder and Ginobili goes flailing to the ground, clutching his neck.

I don't let my love for Manu cloud my judgment. The fact I actually don't have a heart makes this quite easy.

by sungo on Mar 26, 2008 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Did you feel the same way about the Stackhouse incident?

I'll watch the Howard clip, if it's out there, and attempt to follow your unbiased example. If you're right, and it's not as bad as many of us (including Orlando's homers) thought it was; I vow to remove Dwight Howard from Manu's enemies list. He's going to be thrilled by that news, and be thankful at Manu's mercy.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 26, 2008 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Did you feel the same way about the Stackhouse incident?

No, of course not. That was an actual and obvious intentional foul that bordered on assault. Fouls like that get overlooked by the league and the media because of plays like the one involving Howard.

by sungo on Mar 26, 2008 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Manu doesn't get "protected" by the officials because they don't trust him

That's occurred to me; during his first year in the league, Manu earned a reputation with the zebras. He's cleaned up considerably since, but he hasn't gotten credit for it - consequently, he gets up bleeding more often than any other player I can think of. I won't deny that it's partially his own doing, but that doesn't change the fact that he receives more cheap shots on his own than most teams put together.

Also, there is the fact that "barely tugs" from Dwight Howard is about the equivalent of someone like me trying to body-slam a guy. That, and just a little push on someone going full speed can knock them way off course - especially someone like Manu who constantly teeters on the edge of his balance & control.

Granted, I didn't actually see the Howard foul, so I can't have a real opinion. I do kinda doubt that he was trying to hurt Manu.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Matt...You Judas!

by Hipuks on Mar 25, 2008 10:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Yeah - Howard's not the type to try and hurt anyone - we're probably just on edge because of all the cheap shots Manu took against Dallas.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

You think the officials are biased against Manu because he's Argentinian?

Third Quarter Collapse: An Orlando Magic Blog at SB Nation

by Ben Q Rock on Mar 25, 2008 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Not really the officials - although we do wonder sometimes. If you haven't yet, take a look at Jerry Stackhouse's takedown of Manu last game. That warrants at least a flagrant foul, or a one game suspension. The league declined to even review it - and Manu got called for a foul on that play. (as a side note, compare that to the play that got Bowen suspended for "kicking" Chris Paul.)

But with the officials, it cuts both ways. Yeah, that was some BS, but the Spurs have had officiating BS break their way in the past, just like every team has, whether they recognize and admit it or not.

More than anything tho, it's the way many players in the league complain about Manu and treat him like a punching bag and an unworthy opponent. It was one thing when it was Larry Bird, dropping threes, clutch jumpers and clever passes, or making gritty inside plays - that's a white man's game. But when a guy with white skin starts pulling cross-overs, starts breaking defender's ankles, or dunks in a crowd after a slashing drive... that's a black man's game. And not only is he not black... this boy ain't even American. He's from some south-euro-type-place-or-something.

You don't see Kobe or LeBron receiving too many deliberate elbows or forearms to the head near the rim after they burn a perimeter defender and make a drive. Sure, they get fouled, but they get fouled by defenders going for the ball, hacking the arm, or tying them up before they have a chance to make a play. With Manu tho, he gets at least one cheap and unnecessary shot to the head every game. Sometimes it gets called. Last game at Dallas, he received at three or four. At a certain point in the game, they gave up even trying to defend him, and just started trying to hurt him.

And the usual response: "It's just the typical stuff with that guy" - right... he's a flopper. Please. Manu's flopping is vastly overexaggerated. He flops no more than most players, and less than quite a few. Raja Bell comes immediately to mind. Ray Allen is another. I've seen Rip Hamilton pull some doozies, but no one calls him a flopper. Every team has a player (or a couple of players) who flops far more flagrantly than Ginobili, but none have his reputation for it.

For all the complaints about his style of play, few bother to go back and notice that, on many of his "flops", he took an elbow or a forearm to the head or face. I've seen Manu get bloodied at least a dozen times without getting a foul called his way. Stackhouse may have said it was flopping, but when Ginobili got up, he was the one bleeding from the mouth.
During the playoffs, that kind of crap happens to everyone. But it happens to Manu all year long, every year. It'll take a lot of contrary evidence to convince me that there isn't a surplus of racial animosity to Ginobili from a good percentage of the players in the league. He puts up with too much crap, and just walks away.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

btw... Chris Paul - another player who flops more than Manu.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I've been saying this stuff for years. After the '04-05 season ended it's like every brother in the league had a meeting and decided that he's not allowed to dunk in this league without being flagrantly fouled in the head.

Powell thinks I'm crazy.

But Shaq (of all people, I'm using Shaq as an example) spoke about this in an interview or his book or something years ago. If a white guy dunks on you, your "Boys" will let you know about it.

by Aaronstampler on Mar 26, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

04-05 was when the "flopping" accusations started making the rounds too. And, in the rest of the league's defense, Manu's long hair did exaggerate contact. This year tho (and last year too), it's like he's making a conscious effort to avoid flopping at all. I can't remember the last offensive foul he drew.

I'll forever give Manu kudos for refusing to acknowledge the crap he puts up with. That's probably the best response to any kind of discrimination - racial or otherwise. Refuse to give it credence, and let it fail on it's own lack of merit.

In a couple of years, things will have evened out a bit anyway - there will be more athletic whites in the league, and you can't convince me that there aren't any potential athletic guards out of a billion Chinese. There are still a lot of human resources yet to be tapped, and it'll turn out in the end that the Bronx only has it's fair share of ballers.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Not even gonna touch the racial overtones, although it is intriguing and I can't objectively in any way prove that it's not true.

You nailed my thoughts in regards to the original comment though. I'm beyond tired of Manu getting raped every game as the officials seem to turn a blind eye because, "he's an exaggerator anyway." My comment was related to watching the game, and hearing the ORLANDO announcers even remark that Manu has to "turn the other cheek quite often."

Why do you suppose that is? Is it because HE is dirty, or a flopper, or some other reason? Turning the other cheek doesn't even apply when you initiate the conflict. I'm simply exasperated over how often I see arguably the most passionate player in the game get put on his ass with intent to injure or harm; and then have to rise up and walk away because for some reason the officials and the league doesn't protect some players.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 26, 2008 2:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Also btw, that sucks about Hedo's wrist. We still wish he had been half as productive during his Spur's stint as he is now.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

you got it all wrong. manu is disrespecting all those guys like stack and carmelo by saying that it's just part of the game. they're panzi-a** attempts to beat him down only make him mad. when he's mad, he takes the thing you need most in life... you heart. i bet he eats it with fava beans and chianti.

by dmcnulla on Mar 25, 2008 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Ah yes, a nice Hannibal Lecter reference.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I would give anything to see either Ime or KT run over and KermitWash-punch whomever had put Manu down. We need that fear and toughness factor going into the playoffs.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Yeah, Ime and KT need to chin-check some fools here pretty soon.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 8:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Dooling is now going to be ineffective. That happens when you fall and look up to see Mr. Duncan helping you up- you're filled with awe and thus useless for the remainder of the game.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I noticed KT pushed Stack away the other day. I wish he had 'bowed him in the head.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 8:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Rashard hits a 3. That trifecta just cost the magic $89,673. Don't know if you heard, but RL is overpaid.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Tony channeling his inner Chris Dudley again.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 8:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Orlando seems really hampered by the presence of an officiating crew at the game tonight.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

No freakin' way thats Finley. No way. Somebody else is suited up in his place, like that movie Face Off. He's got a career high 22 so far.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Seriously, I want to know what is going on with Mr. Finley tonight.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 8:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

FinnnnnnnnDogggggggggg!!!!!!!!!!

I would also like to give credit where credit due by acknowledging that the Magic announcers are really good and not homers at all.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 8:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

No doubt, Fin's definately been his old Caribbean Queen self tonight.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Yeah, I don't hate this Orlando team. Never have, really. Maybe it's because they're in the east; maybe it's because Ron Jeremy resurected his career by coaching them; maybe it's because DHow is fun to watch. I don't know, but I can't dispise them as much as other teams.

Rashard however, he's a different story. Still too much stank on him of Ray 'Nancy Boy' Allen.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Just want to reiterate here-

Can't thank LatinD enough for these links. Watching all games live now has pushed me into being completely and utterly worthless when the SPURS are scheduled. Seriously, if you need anything, we're all in debt to you.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I'll second that. Especially the worthless part.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Mar 25, 2008 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Thanks, guys, and DennardC too.

It's great to ruin other people's social lives. The week after I discovered P2P I broke up with my girlfriend. Coincidence? I think not.

by LatinD on Mar 25, 2008 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

That's hilarious. And it's hilarious because I'm on the road you just exited. My girlfriend and I have never had so many fights as in the last several weeks, coincidentally the same period that I've activly engaged in being a true SPURS fan and watching every game. And apparently, ruining our social lives by doing so.

That being said, I still thank and praise you enormously. Even with the current fighting and the looming explosion, I wouldn't trade my games courtesy of LatinD for anything.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 11:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Ha! Suckers! I don't even have a girlfriend. Wait...Dammit.

by Hipuks on Mar 26, 2008 1:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I concur SgtinManus, LatinD is the man. Solid performance by the gents tonight. Looking forward to tomorrow night.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 8:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Damn Howard had a quiet 20-20 night.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 25, 2008 8:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Good night, all. I can now enjoy my tuna helper and sleep peacefully. 4 straight is pleasing. Nice win tonight too, catch ya'll manana...

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 25, 2008 8:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Yes, 54% shooting - that's what we need!

by 4Him on Mar 25, 2008 8:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Yeah, good game. Now all we need to win the championship is for Finley to keep playing at that level for 12 games, then the playoffs.

Piece of cake.

by LatinD on Mar 25, 2008 8:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Michael Finley has a pulse. Let us all rejoice.

by 0signal on Mar 25, 2008 10:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

24 for fin? i think he's been reading this blog and it was just the motivation he needed. obviously.

go spurs go

by htownspur on Mar 25, 2008 10:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

somewhere billy ocean fans are smiling as they sip kool-aid drinks on the main deck of their cruise vessel.

by bones on Mar 26, 2008 8:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I hear there's a fire sale on "the greatest shooter of all time", J.J. Redick videos. Now's the time to stock up folks.

by agutierrez on Mar 26, 2008 8:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Timmeh's block on Howard was so beastly

by Linix129 on Mar 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Timmeh's block was beastly but he hasen't been playng that good lately.

by Flogo on Mar 26, 2008 12:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I think Rick2g and others are right about the racial dimension as regards Manu. At the very least, it deserves a lot more discussion. And, of course, the MSM won't touch it. I think lots of Black players are used to being able to intimidate whites (and, no, most do not realize that Latinos do not consider themselves to be white). In Manu's case, I think it's just not in his DNA to be intimidated by or to fear anyone, period. Guys look at him and he just doesn't look or act the part. He's not particularly big (by NBA standards), he's doesn't look at all muscular, he doesn't have some permanent scowl or act like he hates the world. Yet, time and again, on both defense and offense, he kicks their ass. Just look at D.Howard, easily one of the league's most athletic shot blockers: Manu went over, under and thru him and still got his shot up and made it. Then he stole the ball from him too. And Stackass: shit, every time they play, Manu just owns his ass on both ends of the floor. They just can't believe that this scrawny "white guy" (see above) can routinely do this to them. So they try roughing him up, thinking it might intimidate him next time. Shit! Fava beans and chianti! You bet your ass.

by agutierrez on Mar 26, 2008 12:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Hell yeah, Manu ain't no punk. You would think everybody in the league would realize that. I had figured that out when I first saw him ball in 2002. Dude is a straight up B-Ball killer. As for Tim, there isn't any need to worry about him, if he is looking to clean glass and block shots like he did last night, his offense will come because he is playing agressively.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 26, 2008 2:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I take exception with Powell's arguments about Manu not being protected because of past behavior (flops). No one is a bigger flopper than Steve Nash, always has been and still is. But he's protected more than anyone in the league. Witness the Horry incident. He embellished it all to hell and RoHo got suspended for two games. There are lots of floppers much more egregious than Manu has ever been and lots of players who embellish to get a call. The refs know that. They treat Manu differently for a reason and I think we all know what it is. I damn sure do.

by agutierrez on Mar 26, 2008 4:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Know what? That's a GREAT point. There are many many players more egregious than Manu at embellishing contact and disrespecting the trust of the officials. Nash, Heir Flop, the list is endless. I'm now even more confused.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 26, 2008 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Agree with Sgt - that's a good point.

I hadn't really stopped to consider how the refs treat some of the other floppers. Nash and Nowitzki are both excellent examples of players who flop more than and yet absorb far less contact than Manu. The difference would be that they play a "white man's" game - Nowitzki's been allergic to anything other than 3's and fadeaways for most of his career, and Nash's entire game rests on well timed bounce passes and marksman-like shooting.

And look how the refs treat them - particularly Nowitzki - until very recently in his career, he's been nothing but a spot-up, step-back, and fade-away shooter. Yet he routinely shoots as many or more free throws than the entire Spurs team when they match up against SA. I was at a playoff game a few years back (03, I think) when Dirk shot almost 30 free throws, and the Spurs shot less than 20. No comment on Nash - needless to say, he's been granted an eternal pass to flop like a fish out of water, and nobody says crap about it. To say nothing of Raja Bell...

Hell... when was the last time you heard a player complaining about Anderson Varaejo(sp?)? He's by far the most flagrant flopper in the league, and HIS style of flopping puts other players knee's at risk.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Do you guys really, truly believe that Nash and Dirk flop more than Manu? You're fucking crazy. How many times a game does Manu come off a screen and jerk backwards, raising his elbow, physically screaming "OH MY GOD THAT GUY JUST HAND-CHECKED ME?"

As for Horry getting suspended two games, that had absolutely NOTHING to do with protecting Steve Nash and everything to do with Stoudemire and Diaw getting suspended for a game; the NBA was saving face, not favoriting Nash.

by sungo on Mar 26, 2008 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

In a word, YES. With literal objectivity and putting aside my man-crush and protective sentiment towards Manu.... I can earnestly say that Heir Flop and Nash flop more than Manu. Watch the suns specifically this year (it's easier to see now days since Nash has lost 15 steps and is trying to cut corners by 'creating contact' and 'flopping').

When Manu had spagetti-monster-like hair, the impression that he was "The Flopper" in the league was created. He DID flop a lot, but the way that he contorted his body through the lane and the luxurious way that his hair flew around added to the media myth of his game being dominated by flopping. The stigma has stuck ever since.

Heir Flop, Nash, Varejo (seriously, who cares about the spelling? He's a no one), anyone wearing a denver thuggets jersey; all immediately come to mind as players given more special treatment and more protection than Manu. These comments started as 'why is Manu abused as the league looks away,' but I think the flopping comments are on point as well. Yes, he flops. I can truthfully say that I don't believe any more than others though, and Manu is labeled and seldom rewarded for it as others are.

by SgtinManusArmy on Mar 26, 2008 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I'm confused too as to why Manu doesn't get the respect he is due. Is it xenophobia? I'm thinking it is. Manu is an awesome basketball player, a surefire Hall of Famer, but he doesn't get anywhere near the love he deserves, at least not from mainstream media and mainstream America. Real hoopheads know what's up. I'm hoping that one of the Spurs haul off and knock the shit out of somebody the next time they take a cheap shot at Manu and it's happening a lot, so the opportunity will present itself.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 26, 2008 4:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

rick2g, I was just on a different blog, and they highlighted your comment with regards to Manu having to put up with more ingrained racism than Jackie Robinson. Yeah...dude puts up with racial BS, but with more since anybody since Jackie Robinson, that's a tad hyperbolic, IMO.

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." - Henry Ford

by DennardC on Mar 26, 2008 5:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

Wait a second, did rick2g really say that? HAVE WE COLLECTIVELY LOST OUR FUCKING MINDS HERE PEOPLE?

by sungo on Mar 26, 2008 5:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

gawdammit... here's the stupid link.

My sig feels more appropriate than ever. I'm feeling accomplished today.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh god.. someone on the net is misquoting me?!!!

Well, first of all, I didn't say he puts up with MORE than Jackie Robinson... my wording actually specifies JR as someone who put up with more crap than Manu does, but the particular idiom I used is often purposefully misunderstood - and I should have seen that coming.

And I'm sure there's SOMEONE in sports who's had to put up with a lot of racial crap since then, but I can't think of anyone who's caught as much flak from the black side of the aisle as Manu has, and to me, the players who single out Manu for hard fouls on drives are not much different than the guys who intentionally spiked Jackie with their cleats when they ran by him.

You can say hard fouls are part of the game, and they are, just like surreptitiously spiking basemen is/was part of the game of baseball, but when it's racially motivated, it's as cowardly and stupid as any slur.

But yeah... perhaps a tad hyperbolic.

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Oh god.. someone on the net is misquoting me?!

Well, despite Matthew's attempt to keep it real, so to speak, I somewhat agree with you.

If Manu had been born in the States, we'd be hearing about him so often we would be forced to trade him to the Rockets for Scola and two 1st round draft picks.

There has to be a racial undertone there somewhere. Either that, or Americans just don't like bald spots.

by LatinD on Mar 26, 2008 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

btw... what blog?

chaos... panic... pandemonium... my work here is done.

by rick2g on Mar 26, 2008 6:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I'm just worried that one of these days that he will get really injured by "these so called hard clean fouls" Name me one other player that literally gets
hit with that much force as he does?

It would be nice if the Spurs management decided to send the League a couple of "hard clean fouls that Manu has taken lately!

Look at what happened against the Kings with Brad Miller; The Mavs with Stackbitch; and the Magic with Howard..and none of these warrant any reviews from the league? If the league wants to protect players it needs to protect everyone not just the media darlings!

by adam8065 on Mar 26, 2008 6:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: Game Thread #71- at Orlando

I also sometimes find it comical how some Spurs fan want Manu to drive and be aggressive sometimes it's difficult when you might be injured by the opposing player

by adam8065 on Mar 26, 2008 6:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs