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I really expected the Spurs to come out with good focus and execution in this game. There were five turnovers from SA in the first 12 minutes of the game. Not so much good focus and execution as, I hope they don't blow this one, too. It was pretty sloppy out there. The Spurs trailed 20-22 after one.
Halfway through the second quarter the two teams were tied before San Antonio went on a 12-0 run fueled by a couple of Danny Green steals and a Kawhi Leonard block to make it a 41-29 game with three minutes left. Kawhi was a machine on the defensive end and came up with an otstanding four first half blocks. Perhaps the Nuggets playing for the second night in a row was affecting their legs, but the Spurs took firm control of the game. The Spurs took an eleven point advantage into the break.
The Spurs grew their lead to 17 in the third, but by the time the quarter ended the good guys held just a 10-point lead.
The Nuggets hung in there and even forced Popovich to insert Timmy for some insurance when the Nuggets cut it to eight. Then a poor transition play from Boris led to a missed Belinelli three and then a missed Belinelli layup on the second chance led to an and-one opportunity for Nate Robinson. Five-point game with half the quarter gone.
The Spurs pulled out the victory in a fourth quarter that was a little closer than comfortable. Your Spurs improve to 17-7 and remain in the fifth seed in the crazy Western Conference.
GIF of the Night:
Timmy was pretty upset that he didn't get a foul call on Nurkic on the previous possession. Check Tim out here as he yanks him out of position and then five seconds later rejects Nurkic's shot attempt. Pretty sweet stuff from Big Fun.
Next up:
The Spurs continue their road trip and will take on the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night at 9 p.m. Spurs time. The Spurs have the opportunity to become the only team in the four major North American sports with a winning record against their entire league if they win the game. It'll be tough on a BABA, but man...that record would be really cool.