Game blog: Preseason Game 7: Spurs vs. Heat

[completely deck]

Recent Spurs news:
Spurs Waive Three (http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/spurs_waive_three_081023.html)
Spurs' Three Bubble Players Fight for Two Roster Spots (http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/spurs/Spurs_three_bubble_players_fight_for_two_roster_sp ots.html)
Ginobili Resumes Shooting (http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/spurs/Spurs_Ginobili_resumes_shooting.html)

Recent Heat news:
Miami Heat's Shawn Livingston makes debut in loss (http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/basketball/story/739289.html)
Heat finally get preseason win, top Grizzlies (http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/basketball/miami-heat/story/735802.html)
Miami Heat's Chalmers making a bid for playing time (http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/basketball/miami-heat/story/737248.html)

Spurs 2008 pre-season stat totals:


REBOUNDS
Player G GS MIN FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF DEF TOT AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Tony Parker 5 5 88 26-41 0-1 9-11 0 7 7 23 1 0 11 3 61
Tim Duncan 4 4 85 19-33 0-0 20-24 9 23 32 8 2 1 4 3 58
Desmon Farmer 6 0 108 17-39 13-25 8-10 2 8 10 8 1 1 5 8 55
Matt Bonner 6 3 113 18-38 8-20 5-5 3 21 24 7 1 1 6 10 49
Tolliver 6 1 123 18-56 6-26 4-5 11 20 31 4 7 1 4 9 46
Hairston 6 0 130 14-36 1-6 3-5 6 21 27 10 3 7 8 11 32
Roger Mason 5 2 99 13-36 4-13 1-1 2 6 8 6 2 1 6 7 31
Finley 4 4 71 11-30 7-14 1-1 2 9 11 7 1 1 4 3 30
Devin Green 4 0 87 8-22 1-2 11-14 2 5 7 11 5 2 4 10 28
Ime Udoka 4 2 77 9-27 4-10 3-4 1 18 19 7 8 1 3 10 25
George Hill 3 1 57 9-20 4-9 2-2 0 2 2 10 7 1 6 8 24
Jacque Vaughn 5 0 73 5-14 0-1 10-12 0 7 7 14 2 0 4 3 20
Oberto 4 1 72 9-17 0-0 1-2 8 13 21 5 1 0 5 11 19
Watkins 5 0 75 4-7 0-0 8-11 4 12 16 3 2 7 9 8 16
Kurt Thomas 3 3 52 7-15 0-0 0-0 1 12 13 4 2 0 2 7 14
C. Gaines 4 0 31 6-9 0-0 1-2 1 2 3 0 2 0 0 3 13
S. Stoudamire 2 0 38 4-16 1-3 2-2 0 3 3 5 2 0 2 2 11
Bruce Bowen 4 4 59 2-8 1-6 3-4 0 5 5 4 0 1 1 2 8
Team Totals 6 0 1,440 199-464 50-136 92-115 52 194 246 136 49 25 90 118 540
Opponents 6 0 -- 192-469 42-113 80-115 55 190 245 112 40 23 92 108 506

Heat pre-season stats:


REBOUNDS
Player G GS MIN FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF DEF TOT AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Dwyane Wade 6 6 174 37-80 5-11 36-43 4 22 26 35 13 3 21 8 115
M Beasley 6 2 151 39-76 2-7 16-25 11 22 33 6 4 2 16 20 96
Marcus Banks 6 2 158 21-42 9-21 8-9 3 12 15 19 11 1 15 12 59
Shawn Marion 6 6 179 25-53 1-6 8-12 11 28 39 11 3 4 7 11 59
Mark Blount 6 4 115 14-30 0-0 13-16 2 12 14 4 4 3 7 11 41
Chalmers 6 1 139 14-32 4-17 8-11 3 16 19 20 7 0 13 24 40
Udonis Haslem 4 4 121 18-37 0-0 2-4 14 23 37 1 5 0 6 7 38
Daequan Cook 5 0 94 11-38 3-17 2-3 1 12 13 5 4 0 7 12 27
Y.Diawara 6 2 119 10-32 3-17 3-3 6 11 17 3 3 0 5 5 26
Chris Quinn 4 3 64 5-20 2-9 2-4 1 4 5 7 5 0 3 2 14
Joel Anthony 5 0 66 1-5 0-0 9-14 9 6 15 1 2 10 6 11 11
David Padgett 3 0 30 4-7 0-0 3-4 2 4 6 0 0 0 1 4 11
Dorell Wright 1 0 19 4-7 0-0 1-2 1 4 5 1 0 0 0 1 9
Livingston 1 0 18 2-6 1-1 0-0 0 1 1 3 1 1 1 4 5
Omar Barlett 1 0 9 1-3 0-1 2-4 1 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 4
Eddie Basden 1 0 9 0-1 0-0 0-2 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 0
J.Magloire 2 0 25 0-1 0-0 0-2 2 2 4 0 2 0 2 2 0
Team Totals 6 0 1,490 206-470 30-107 113-158 71 180 251 117 65 24 116 137 555
Opponents 6 0 -- 205-458 37-110 127-177 71 179 250 110 57 25 118 141 574

Game info:
Time: 7:30 PM
Arena: AT&T Center, San Antonio, TX
TV: ??

[Gino2882]

Any word on whether or not George Hill is going tonight?

[tav1]

I'm sure Hill will play, and so is San Antonio. Otherwise they wouldn't have waived both Green and Stoudamire so soon.

[hater]

holy shit. Hairston's #s look relatively pretty good. I take it back. Now I hope we keep him over Farmer

[benefactor]

holy shit. Hairston's #s look relatively pretty good. I take it back. Now I hope we keep him over Farmer
Indeed. Check Tolliver on the offensive rebounds and steals.:tu

[spurs_2108]

I'm there tonight. Was there also on Wed. I think seeing the new guys fight for the spot.

[hater]

Indeed. Check Tolliver on the offensive rebounds and steals.:tu


yup. and Hairston got as many blocks as Watkins

[Amuseddaysleeper]

This game won't be on TV, will it?

[duncan228]

Jeff McDonald: Hill probable for Heat (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/archives/2008/10/jeff_mcdonald_h_7.html)

George Hill and his sprained left thumb survived this morning's shootaround without complication, meaning he is likely to play in tonight's preseason finale against the Heat.

Hill, the rookie point guard, will probably have to wear a splint on his left hand, so it will be interesting to see how he adjusts to it.

Meanwhile, D-Day is approaching for the three bubble players vying for the last two roster spots. Anthony Tolliver, Desmon Farmer and Malik Hairston will all have one last chance to showcase their skills.

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich is dreading the final cut, because he firmly believes whoever he lets go will wind up in the NBA some day. That's the price he'll have to pay for hosting one of the most talent-rich training camps in recent memory.

"It's heartbreaking every time you see someone get cut, miss an opportunity by a last cut or whatever it may be," Tim Duncan said. "You get invested in them a little bit."

[Spurs Brazil]

I'd like to see more Mason tonight

[Flux451]

any word on broadcasting?

[Amuseddaysleeper]

any word on broadcasting?

Seems doubtful. Both spurs.com and miamiheat.com list a tv broadcasting game of this as unavailable.

[hater]

any web streaming?

[Obstructed_View]

I'm hoping that this game is treated like a regular season game with the three guys fighting for position getting a lot of time on the floor with both units. I'd love to see how they handle pressure.

HTF isn't this game on TV somewhere?

If we can't get the WOAI feed on NBA LP I'm going to be annoyed.

[DPG21920]

This should be a good game for Hill. He can get a chance to destroy Chalmers and shut everyone up.

[Obstructed_View]

This should be a good game for Hill. He can get a chance to destroy Chalmers and shut everyone up.

I hadn't thought about that. How cool would that be?

[024]

i want to see hill guard wade like he had to guard mayo.

[Obstructed_View]

If he does, he'll be the first. :)

[Manufan909]

Jeff McDonald: Hill probable for Heat (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/archives/2008/10/jeff_mcdonald_h_7.html)

George Hill and his sprained left thumb survived this morning's shootaround without complication, meaning he is likely to play in tonight's preseason finale against the Heat.

Hill, the rookie point guard, will probably have to wear a splint on his left hand, so it will be interesting to see how he adjusts to it.

Meanwhile, D-Day is approaching for the three bubble players vying for the last two roster spots. Anthony Tolliver, Desmon Farmer and Malik Hairston will all have one last chance to showcase their skills.

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich is dreading the final cut, because he firmly believes whoever he lets go will wind up in the NBA some day. That's the price he'll have to pay for hosting one of the most talent-rich training camps in recent memory.

"It's heartbreaking every time you see someone get cut, miss an opportunity by a last cut or whatever it may be," Tim Duncan said. "You get invested in them a little bit."

Hope that is a reference to Tolliver. Looking at the stats, Bonner has superior range, FT shooting, whilst Tolliver has rebounding and steals. Hope Pop notices that too. And how Farmer is over 50% in 3's. Come on Pop, FORGET HORRY. No one will come close to replacing him, except maybe Gist...
:stirpot:

Anyone know of a good stream(ElNono)???

[benefactor]

No TV that I can find. It has links on Audio League Pass but I don't know if it will give us a broadcast.

[Ice009]

holy shit. Hairston's #s look relatively pretty good. I take it back. Now I hope we keep him over Farmer

Farmer's scoring numbers pop out to me. He's scored the third most points on the team hitting 43.5% from the field, 52% from three point range, 80% from the free throw line and he's done this in 22 minutes less court time than Malik Hairston has received.

Let me ask you this. Why can Tolliver get applauded for doing this is summer league, but Farmer has done the same thing scoring wise, and shooting wise as Tolliver and everyone seems to brush it off.

[Manufan909]

Because pop's mancrush rules all. The 3 straight trey's should've warranted a standing ovation, as well as the alley oop pass. But no, Tolliver missing point blank twice and padding his O rebounds stats is awe-worthy...

[xellos88330]

Looks like its LP and gamecast for tonight :pctoss

[timtonymanu]

i really wanna watch this game.

[Manufan909]

Fuck!!! Come on someone, find a feed!!!




Please?

[tav1]

Gamecast is the worst, but I'm in. Big game.

[benefactor]

Yeah...Gamecast blows but what can you do. Can't find an audio link either.

[Obstructed_View]

ALP has all of yesterday's games up. WTF?

[tp2021]

Fuck!!! Come on someone, find a feed!!!




Please?

http://www.justin.tv/sporrtcenter (http://xrl.us/bdzqm)

[benefactor]

ALP has all of yesterday's games up. WTF?
Saw that too.

[benefactor]

http://www.justin.tv/sporrtcenter (http://xrl.us/bdzqm)
That shit isn't funny man...not now.

[Obstructed_View]

Saw that too.

I sent them an email. We'll see if they update it.

[Obstructed_View]

If the game isn't on TV, it's probably not the NBA's fault, it's probably the Spurs being cheap-asses. I don't know anything about how it works, but that's my suspicion.

[Obstructed_View]

http://www.justin.tv/sporrtcenter (http://xrl.us/bdzqm)

Glad I'm wasting my time trying to help people find a link to the game when fucksticks like you are posting crap that crashes my browser windows. Plonk.

[tav1]

Interesting that Cook would get a start against the Spurs after basically not playing this preseason.

Is Bruno here?

[timtonymanu]

Starters:
Oberto
Duncan
Finley
Mason
Parker

[Amuseddaysleeper]

If the game isn't on TV, it's probably not the NBA's fault, it's probably the Spurs being cheap-asses. I don't know anything about how it works, but that's my suspicion.

But the game isn't posted through the Miami Heat TV Broadcasters either.

Which sucks, considering SUN TV has been showing virtually every heat game this preseason, not sure why they skipped out on this one.

[benefactor]

Mason in the starting lineup tonight. Finley just drained a three.

[Ice009]

http://www.justin.tv/sporrtcenter (http://xrl.us/bdzqm)

Fucking BAN this idiot.

[timtonymanu]

frickin hate gamecast

[Ice009]

Anyone got any audio links?

[tav1]

No, and Gamecast is almost unbearable.

[benefactor]

Anyone got any audio links?
Nope. Audio LP has all the links up from yesterday and not today.

[tav1]

Why didn't Bowen get the start?

[Ice009]

Spurs down 17-10 looks like. Far out are the Spurs even playing seriously or what?

[ace3g]

did they say why Bowen wasn't in the starting lineup

[tav1]

What's Pop up to with this rotation?

[tav1]

The second line up is even more janky than the first.

Thomas
Oberto
Udoka
Bowen
Parker

[Ice009]

Haslem 10 and 4.

What is TD doing? 3 and 1.

[Obstructed_View]

So much for getting some first team burn with any of the new guys.

[timtonymanu]

Udoka with back-to-back jumpers

[tav1]

Udoka hitting early.

[traitoravery]

I like Yahoos boxscore its like Gamecast but not with all the retarded bells and whistles...

[ace3g]

Udoka is active early, hitting shots, rebounding and getting some steals

[tav1]

Save Parker for the games that count. Let's see Hill.

[traitoravery]

Udoka is going to be a beast this year...

[tav1]

Pop's crazy substitutions worked. Way to go, Santa.

[ace3g]

Vaughn first PG off the bench

[timtonymanu]

Vaughn goes in for Parker

Where's Hill?

[tav1]

Damn it. Vaughn's in.

[Obstructed_View]

Udoka is going to be a beast this year...

He's been a double edged sword so far in preseason.

[timtonymanu]

KT with the jumper!

[benefactor]

I like Yahoos boxscore its like Gamecast but not with all the retarded bells and whistles...
Agreed. I like it more simple. I'm over there now.

[benefactor]

Good to see KT finding his range in the preseason. We are gonna need his shooting.

[Ice009]

What's the link for the Yahoo one?

[ace3g]

good to see Shaun Livingston back on the court after his freak injury

[benefactor]

What's the link for the Yahoo one?
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/boxscore?gid=2008102424

[duncan228]

What's the link for the Yahoo one?

The Yahoo boxscore?

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/boxscore?gid=2008102424

[benefactor]

Yeah...its got a play by play on there and it seems to update quicker than ESPN for me.

[Obstructed_View]

I can actually pick up WOAI on the radio on my desk. Wow.

[Ice009]

Yeah. Thanks to both.

[Amuseddaysleeper]

ugh I can't believe Bonner is taking up a roster spot.

[timtonymanu]

Bowen for three!

[traitoravery]

Boner 0 for 2

[timtonymanu]

Duncan and Mason back in

[Ice009]

Bonner. :(.

[benefactor]

Just noticed the Yahoo box is missing some of our reserves.

[Ice009]

Wade's not even playing is he?

[tav1]

Livingston seems to be playing alright, all things considered.

[timtonymanu]

Wade's not even playing is he?

doesnt look like he will

[Flux451]

can you add a link to yahoo broadcast, can't find it

[Obstructed_View]

Just noticed the Yahoo box is missing some of our reserves.

Maybe because they haven't been in yet.

[traitoravery]

Yeah they add them as they come in....

[tav1]

doesnt look like he will

back to back for Miami

[Obstructed_View]

Yeah they add them as they come in....

Except Miami has two guys with zeros next to their names. ??

[tav1]

No Tolliver, no Hill, no Hairston, no Farmer...

[angelbelow]

No Tolliver, no Hill, no Hairston, no Farmer...

hmmm.....

[Ice009]

No Tolliver, no Hill, no Hairston, no Farmer...

lol this is a letdown. no video, no audio, no new guys seeing court time.

[traitoravery]

Except Miami has two guys with zeros next to their names. ??

Hmmmm maybe they left the arena...:lol

[angelbelow]

hopefully they start the 2nd half.

[tav1]

This is the worst. I'm gonna watch a movie.

[angelbelow]

lol this is a letdown. no video, no audio, no new guys seeing court time.

lol :lol

[barbacoataco]

Farmer is older than Hairston or Tolliver, and has a more developed game. That said, he is a weak defender trying to play SG position on a team known for defense. Just because he has had the hot hand from 3-pt range in pre-season does not mean he will be an offensive force in the NBA.

[Obstructed_View]

hopefully they start the 2nd half.

I have a hunch that Pop already made his decision and doesn't want anyone to make that decision look questionable later by playing well.

[timtonymanu]

forreal. the only day i can watch a preseason game and i cant even see it.

[benefactor]

This is the worst. I'm gonna watch a movie.
I am just about done too. This sucks beyond reason.

[Ice009]

It's quite obvious so far from this game with the regulars out there that the Spurs need OFFENSE BAD.

Farmer. Then take your pick between Tolliver and Hairston.

[Obstructed_View]

Just because he has had the hot hand from 3-pt range in summer league does not mean he will be an offensive force in the NBA.
Who's that quote about?

[Fermixalot]

what the hell? NBA.com really dropped the ball on this.

Obstructed, the game is on WOAI? The online stream i found was talk radio.

[Obstructed_View]

If fucking NBA.com would just do their jobs there wouldn't be a problem. I can't figure out any rhyme or reason to the file links on their page so I'm not having any luck getting one.

[benefactor]

Mason really struggling with the shot right now.

[Obstructed_View]

what the hell? NBA.com really dropped the ball on this.

Obstructed, the game is on WOAI? The online stream i found was talk radio.

Must be archived, I'm listening to Bill Schoening on the radio right now.

[timtonymanu]

Mason sucks right now

[Ice009]

I have a hunch that Pop already made his decision and doesn't want anyone to make that decision look questionable later by playing well.

That is interesting. You honestly think he's decided already?

I think Pop should go with his guy. If he listened to others like RC regarding Scola and previous picks he was right and they were wrong.

[Ice009]

Mason really struggling with the shot right now.

That's why Farmer is a MUST for this team. You can never have enough offensive options on the Spurs.

[Ice009]

Mason sucks right now

Farmer is needed. Malik and Tolliver are not.

[Obstructed_View]

That is interesting. You honestly think he's decided already?

I think Pop should go with his guy. If he listened to others like RC regarding Scola and previous picks he was right and they were wrong.

The Spurs have scored 12 points in the second quarter, and there's been no sign of Farmer, Tolliver or even Hill or Hairston.

Farmer's in now.

[benefactor]

Shooting is horrible.

[angelbelow]

hmm i wonder what this means...

[Fermixalot]

Must be archived, I'm listening to Bill Schoening on the radio right now.

Damn... this sucks.:depressed

[angelbelow]

maybe farmer is out, and pop is letting him showcase himself..

[benefactor]

Lets see if the "Microwave" Farmer can close the quarter with something positive for us.

[tav1]

Farmer immediately contributes, spark-plug style.

[Ice009]

The Spurs have scored 12 points in the second quarter, and there's been no sign of Farmer, Tolliver or even Hill or Hairston.

Farmer's in now.

Mason benched. Farmer coming in for him. Let's do it Farmer. Go man. Do it.

[Fermixalot]

farmer is in; assist and a rebound.

[Obstructed_View]

They're going to play an interview with Pop at halftime, where he's going to talk about Tolliver, Hairston and Farmer. I'll transcribe as much as I can.

[Ice009]

maybe farmer is out, and pop is letting him showcase himself..

better not be.

[angelbelow]

They're going to play an interview with Pop at halftime, where he's going to talk about Tolliver, Hairston and Farmer. I'll transcribe as much as I can.

thanks! :toast

[Spurs Brazil]

Gameday: Spurs vs. Heat
SECOND QUARTER

Young Spurs guard Desmon Farmer got in the game for the first time with 3:12 left in the first half. He grabbed a defensive rebound seconds later.

Michael Finley hit a jumper and a 3-pointer in the first quarter. He added another jumper midway though the second quarter to give him seven points.

The Heat's Shaun Livingston, who suffered a devastating knee injury in February, 2007, and didn't play last season, hit two jumpers early in the second quarter. The Heat took a 32-26 lead.

FIRST QUARTER

The Heat shot well from the outside to finish the first quarter with a 24-23 lead.

Jacque Vaughn played the last 2:27 of the quarter at point guard. George Hill, the third point guard in uniform for the Spurs, hasn't gotten in the game yet. Hill had been sidelined with a sprained thumb.

Ime Udoka came off the bench to give the Spurs a spark at both ends. He scored six points his first two minutes in the game and also made a couple of steals.

Miami's Udonis Haslem hit his first four shots and put up 10 quick points. The Heat, playing without Dwyane Wade, jumped out to a 17-10 lead.

PREGAME

Spurs starters: Tony Parker, Michael Finley, Roger Mason Jr., Tim Duncan and Fabricio Oberto.

The Spurs wrap up the preseason tonight at home against the Miami Heat.

The game will be a tuneup for the Spurs core players, another chance to fit into the system for their key newcomers and a last chance to make an impression for some of their youngsters.

http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/spursworld/2008/10/gameday_spurs_vs_heat.html

[Obstructed_View]

Farmer missed a three. He's not afraid to shoot with the first team.

[ace3g]

I'm still loving this: during the halftime show of the Cavs/Wizards game on ESPN, they are talking about how huge of an impact Bynum will have on the lakers and that his rebounding,inside presence would have helped a lot in the finals against the Celtics. Funny thing is, correct me if I am wrong, the Lakers did have Gasol and Odom ; its not like prior to Bynum's injury, they envisioned a twin tower lineup of Bynum alongside another Big. They already had a versatile lineup of: Bryant, Odom, and Bynum

Review for all Lakers fans: The Lakers traded for Gasol because Bynum was injured, if Bynum was not injured they would not have signed Gasol and risked the development of a young player by bringing in an NBA veteran in Gasol to basically take his position (Gasol plays both PF/C)

[Obstructed_View]

Six assists for Parker in the first half.

[Ice009]

Are the Spurs playing to win here? Miami is rolling us.

[benefactor]

Timmy with the flush.

[remingtonbo2001]

So, how did the Heat manage to pick up Livingston.

I just woke up, so someone refresh my memory please.

[Obstructed_View]

Bonner hits a buzzer beater, Farmer with the assist. Farmer will probably be cut for passing the ball to Bonner in that situation. :)

Halftime, Spurs down by 4, thanks mostly to Parker and Duncan.

[timtonymanu]

Bonner with the jumper. Farmer assists

[Spurs Brazil]

Heat up 4 at the half

:00.0 Halftime
:00.0 SA - M. Bonner makes a 12-foot jumper along the right baseline. Assist: D. Farmer
:08.8 SA - T. Parker defensive rebound
:10.9 MIA - M. Chalmers misses a 20-foot jumper from the left wing
:33.9 SA - Defensive goaltending on M. Beasley
:33.9 SA - Layup by I. Udoka. Assist: T. Parker
:35.9 SA - T. Parker defensive rebound
:37.9 MIA - D. Cook misses a 25-foot three-pointer from the left wing
1:00 SA - T. Duncan dunks the ball. Assist: T. Parker
1:10 MIA - D. Cook hits the second free throw

[Chomag]

Notice how Bonner in 10 min of play does not have any other stats other then missed shots...


Well other then a foul lol

[tav1]

Farmer had another dime before the end of the half.

Bonner playing, and Tolliver isn't. Curious.

[tomtom]

Are the Spurs playing to win here? Miami is rolling us.

49-45?

[remingtonbo2001]

Bonner at the buzzer.

Take that Cracka haters.

:lol

[Ice009]

Is yahoo's plus/minus correct?

Farmer leads the team at the half with a plus 4.

[Obstructed_View]

Farmer had another dime before the end of the half.

Bonner playing, and Tolliver isn't. Curious.

I'm a little scared now. It's possible that Pop's going to start Hairston and Tolliver in the second half because he's already decided on Farmer and the other two are competing for the last spot. I've never seriously entertained the idea that Hairston's spot was in danger.

[benefactor]

Farmer had another dime before the end of the half.

Bonner playing, and Tolliver isn't. Curious.
Hairston didn't either. I think he put him in late in the half to see if he would be the spark he has been in previous games at the end of quarters.

[Chomag]

oi! He just hit that shot as I posted! Well there is one lol!

Hmmm, when do you guys think he will get his first rebound?

[remingtonbo2001]

Hmmm, when do you guys think he will get his first rebound?

After the All-Star break...

[benefactor]

Notice how Bonner in 10 min of play does not have any other stats other then missed shots...


Well other then a foul lol
I noticed that too. Lots of goose eggs there.

[Manufan909]

http://www.justin.tv/sporrtcenter (http://xrl.us/bdzqm)

+1 I love getting rick-rolled. What's the story behind that anyways?

[Ice009]

49-45?

It looked like it was going to go to a double digit deficit at one point.

[Ice009]

Farmer had another dime before the end of the half.

Bonner playing, and Tolliver isn't. Curious.

See Farmer can play team ball.

[Obstructed_View]

Halftime interview, Walter P talked to Pop today. It's paraphrased because I had to turn my monitor off to hear the radio clearly and was typing like a madman when I couldn't see the screen:


WP: How close is it with these three guys?

GP: It was difficult before we made the first cuts. I'ts not like one of them is MJ. They're all pretty even, and all really good kids. Tough tough tough decision. We've got to make that final cut.

WP: Will this one game make the difference?

GP: Not unless someone is extremely bad and someone is extremely good. We have a good feeling, and tonight will give us more of an idea, either confirm what we thought or give us something else to talk about.

WP: Are you Looking for one thing specifically?

GP: Just all around good play, whoever is the best player. They all deserve it, but we're looking for the guy who played the best and earned it and we'll reward him.

WP: Best athlete or best fit?

GP: We don't even have guys who can dunk on this team, so best athlete isn't what we're looking for. Good fit. The best contributor.

[Obstructed_View]

It looked like it was going to go to a double digit deficit at one point.

It actually did.

[tav1]

I'm a little scared now. It's possible that Pop's going to start Hairston and Tolliver in the second half because he's already decided on Farmer and the other two are competing for the last spot. I've never seriously entertained the idea that Hairston's spot was in danger.

Funny. I've thought that Hairston was the least likely to make it.

[Ice009]

shit. I don't know what to make of that. Best all around good player. Doesn't sound good for my pick Farmer :(.

[benefactor]

"We don't even have guys who can dunk on this team"

lol...so true.

[Obstructed_View]

Funny. I've thought that Hairston was the least likely to make it.
He's the best of them by far. If defense or a successor to Bowen ever meant anything to Pop, Hairston's going nowhere.

[Manufan909]

Fab can dunk, but it's only a 1 in 80 chance.

[urunobili]

Halftime interview, Walter P talked to Pop today. It's paraphrased because I had to turn my monitor off to hear the radio clearly and was typing like a madman when I couldn't see the screen:


WP: How close is it with these three guys?

GP: It was difficult before we made the first cuts. I'ts not like one of them is MJ. They're all pretty even, and all really good kids. Tough tough tough decision. We've got to make that final cut.

WP: Will this one game make the difference?

GP: Not unless someone is extremely bad and someone is extremely good. We have a good feeling, and tonight will give us more of an idea, either confirm what we thought or give us something else to talk about.

WP: Are you Looking for one thing specifically?

GP: Just all around good play, whoever is the best player. They all deserve it, but we're looking for the guy who played the best and earned it and we'll reward him.

WP: Best athlete or best fit?

GP: We don't even have guys who can dunk on this team, so best athlete isn't what we're looking for. Good fit. The best contributor.

BAd ass OV thanks!

[Ice009]

Then again when he said best fit. Good contributor. That could open up the door again for Farmer. Malik I don't think can contribute right away. lol I have no idea who Pop is going with.

[Fermixalot]

juding by that last comment about the best all around game, it looks like hariston is going to make it. At this point, I won't be disappointed with either player making it, they both deserve it and both will bring posistives to the team.

Though it will suck if the one left out gets picked up by another team and torches us.

[Obstructed_View]

Then again when he said best fit. Good contributor. That could open up the door again for Farmer. Malik I don't think can contribute right away. lol I have no idea who Pop is going with.

Tolliver can contribute with hustle, size and possibly shooting if he can get his touch back.

Hairston can contribute with good defense, good sense around the basket and ball handling ability.

Farmer can contribute by filling it up and bringing a little fire and swagger back to the roster.

It's hard to tell.

[mattyc]

GP: We don't even have guys who can dunk on this team
Bring back James White!!!

[Obstructed_View]

Parker, Duncan, Mason Bowen and KT to start the third.

[Obstructed_View]

Bring back James White!!!

That's actually not a good sign for Hairston because he can dunk.

[benefactor]

Here we go...

[Amuseddaysleeper]

Mason is 0-4

yikes

[traitoravery]

R. Mason misses a layup:vomit:

[Obstructed_View]

Can't hear the radio. I'm gonna have to turn my monitor off.

[Ice009]

We're almost down by ten again. Better get Farmer back out on the court ;).

[benefactor]

Mason gets the ball stolen from him. He is REALLY having a tough game.

[timtonymanu]

Miami cant miss a damn shot

[Ice009]

Down by 11. Spurs offense stinks.

[tav1]

He's the best of them by far. If defense or a successor to Bowen ever meant anything to Pop, Hairston's going nowhere.

I'm not sure. I'm high on both Hairston and Farmer, not so much on Tolliver.

[Ice009]

Mason is playing soft by the sounds of it. Trying not to make mistakes I guess. Bring some attitude Roger.

[tp2021]

Farmer had another dime before the end of the half.

Bonner playing, and Tolliver isn't. Curious.


I'm a little scared now. It's possible that Pop's going to start Hairston and Tolliver in the second half because he's already decided on Farmer and the other two are competing for the last spot. I've never seriously entertained the idea that Hairston's spot was in danger.

Maybe this is the scenario: Farmer is in. Pop is giving Bonner the chance to impress and show he should be kept on the roster, or if he should be traded to make room for all 3 of Hairston, Farmer, and Tolliver. But in case he plays well enough, Pop is also playing Hairston and Tolliver to decide between them.




+1 I love getting rick-rolled. What's the story behind that anyways?

I like getting rick roll'd too. I guess i picked a bad time to try rick rolling other people.

As for the story, wikipedia has it covered.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_roll

[Ice009]

Did Bruce just miss two free throws?
That's pathetic Bruce. Come on man. Hit a free throw.

[benefactor]

Duncan carrying the weight.

[Obstructed_View]

Duncan carrying the weight.

I think he's going to have a really good year.

[Cant_Be_Faded]

Good offseason :tu

[benefactor]

I think he's going to have a really good year.
Yeah...I think he knows he is going to be needed more than ever.

[Spurs Brazil]

6:23 SA - T. Parker makes a 5-foot jumper in the lane. Assist: T. Duncan
6:41 MIA - Layup by S. Marion. Assist: M. Beasley
6:47 MIA - M. Chalmers steals the ball from T. Parker
6:55 SA - T. Parker steals the ball from M. Chalmers
7:01 SA - R. Mason hits a technical free throw
7:01 MIA - Technical foul on S. Marion
7:01 MIA - Full timeout (Timeout #3)
7:10 SA - T. Duncan drives to the hoop for a layup
7:19 SA - T. Duncan defensive rebound
7:21 MIA - S. Marion misses a 7-foot running jumper in the lane

Heat up 8

[Fermixalot]

Duncan carrying the weight.

Good to see nothing has changed in 11 years. :lol:

[Ice009]

I take it you're not a fan of Mason?

[Russ]

Tolliver can contribute with hustle, size and possibly shooting if he can get his touch back.

Hairston can contribute with good defense, good sense around the basket and ball handling ability.

Farmer can contribute by filling it up and bringing a little fire and swagger back to the roster.

What about Mason?

[benefactor]

Parker teaching the rookie he needs to take care of the ball better...steal and a layup.

[Amuseddaysleeper]

What about Mason?

Mason is already on the team no matter what.

I think the discussion was in regards to which players still need to make the team officially.

[benefactor]

Farmer back in. Pop giving him every chance he can to make the team.

[DPG21920]

The thing is, Mason has to be very good for the Spurs to hold their heads above water, he has not done anything this preseason to warrant being excited. It is early, but it would be nice to see something happen.

[SequSpur]

Pop isn't showcasing Bonner. Fuck.. you guys are fucking amazing.. We all know what Bonner can do... I'm sure Pop knows...

Bonner has a guaransheed contract for millions...do ya think he needs to worry?

fuck...

[Ice009]

Roger Mason -15 according to the Yahoo boxscore.

I think Pop needs to stop basing most of his evaluation on practice. So far those guys that Pop said are kicking ass in practice have stunk it up in the games.

[timtonymanu]

Cmon Farmer save the day!

[Obstructed_View]

What about Mason?

Mason's on the roster whether we like it or not. The actual reason the other three aren't getting time is because Mason's been so terrible, and it's more important to get him comfortable with the team because he's in the rotation and will be heavily counted on. If he stinks Pop may not be able to take a flyer on Tolliver because he needs one either Hairston or Farmer to step into Mason's place.

[Manufan909]

Any other unsigned players going to get a chance?

[tp2021]

This should be a good game for Hill. He can get a chance to destroy Chalmers and shut everyone up.

Has anything come of this matchup?

[DPG21920]

Has anything come of this matchup?

Are you being a dick or asking a serious question

[timtonymanu]

Guess we're not seeing Hill vs Chalmers tonight.

[Obstructed_View]

I don't think Hill's been in the game.

[Obstructed_View]

Make up call.

[Fermixalot]

Hey! Bonner with a.... block?

[timtonymanu]

did Tony just miss frickin free throws?

[tp2021]

:wtf Asking a serious question!

[Ice009]

Are the other two the picks and Pop is giving Farmer a last chance here? What is going on?

Good point about Mason. If he continues to stink it up Pop might have to go with Farmer and Hairston just in case.

[Fermixalot]

Bonner....... with a steal??? What...?

[Obstructed_View]

did Tony just miss frickin free throws?

Yep, two, but he just knocked down a step-back, and hit a 20 footer to cut it to four.

[duncan228]

Jeff McDonald: Look for Hill late, if at all (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/archives/2008/10/jeff_mcdonald_l_1.html)

Spurs rookie George Hill has been cleared to play in tonight's preseason game against the Heat. However, coach Gregg Popovich says he's going to exercise extreme caution with Hill and his sprained left thumb.

The plan is to perhaps play Hill late in the game for a few minutes. If so, he will be under instructions to basically play with his hands tied behind his back.

"He'll have to promise me he won't try to steal the ball, won't try to go to the hole," Popovich said before the game. "I just want him to run up and down and get a feel for the game. No crowds."

Asked how confident he would be that Hill would actually keep such a vow, Popovich said he had no worries.

"I think I'm pretty confident," Popovich said. "Because he's young and scared of me."

[benefactor]

Spurs within 4.

[DPG21920]

I thought you were looking at the box score and being sarcastic. Hill has not played, which I guess is ok because they need him healthy.

[Ice009]

Farmer is a +10. Mason a -16.

[Obstructed_View]

Are the other two the picks and Pop is giving Farmer a last chance here? What is going on?

Good point about Mason. If he continues to stink it up Pop might have to go with Farmer and Hairston just in case.

I think you're probably right: Pop's giving Farmer a chance to do something great with the first teamers. I still think Mason's play will have a hand in the decision on Farmer.

[traitoravery]

3:05 SA - M. Bonner steals the ball from M. Beasley Hahaha Beasleymust be high on valium

[benefactor]

"I think I'm pretty confident," Popovich said. "Because he's young and scared of me."

LOL....

[DPG21920]

Pop: Hill is young and scared of me!

[tp2021]

I thought you were looking at the box score and being sarcastic. Hill has not played, which I guess is ok because they need him healthy.

Ok. Your comment made more sense after I read OV's commment 2 posts after yours.

[Obstructed_View]

Farmer is a +10. Mason a -16.

Parker has gone fucking insane both times Farmer's come into the game. I'm waiting for Parker's hands to catch fire and for him to jump 40 feet in the air and dunk it.

[Obstructed_View]

I thought you were looking at the box score and being sarcastic. Hill has not played, which I guess is ok because they need him healthy.

I'm just assuming some guys can't hear the game or see the box score.

[Manufan909]

Parker has gone fucking insane both times Farmer's come into the game. I'm waiting for Parker's hands to catch fire and for him to jump 40 feet in the air and dunk it.

wHAT exactly did HE DO EXACTLY WHEN HE WENT NUTS?

[SequSpur]

http://www.justin.tv/sporrtcenter (http://xrl.us/bdzqm)

you should be banned for fuckin life for this link...

[Obstructed_View]

wHAT exactly did HE DO EXACTLY WHEN HE WENT NUTS?

He scored like ten points in two and a half minutes. Check the game log in the last minute of the first half and the last two minutes from now.

[Ice009]

Bonner 1-6. Keeps jacking up misses. Should be giving Farmer those shots.

[benefactor]

Mason FINALLY gets one to fall.

[tp2021]

I think if Bonner keeps sucking, they might actually trade him.

[Ice009]

Bonner 2 points, 2 fouls, 0 rebounds. ouch.

1 block and 1 steal though.

[timtonymanu]

Mason gets one to fall, then misses a layup.

[SequSpur]

Bonner always jacks shit up... lmao... he has the green light... :lmao

[Obstructed_View]

Bonner's on the team, lke it or not, just like Vaughn is, who just drew two free throws at the end of the quarter.

[DPG21920]

We really need Mason this year. He has to step up.

[Obstructed_View]

I think if Bonner keeps sucking, they might actually trade him.

Out of curiosity, who exactly would trade for a guy who sucks? The Spurs would either need to throw in something really valuable or take something back that sucks as much or more. Since they need the roster spot that means they have to do the former. Who do you package with him that has value?

[Ice009]

Mason giving Bonner a run for his money 1-6 from the field too.

[SequSpur]

"Bowen is going to be the first 39 y/o player in the history of the NBA to produce on a team"
-Spurstalk Fan

[Obstructed_View]

I turned my radio off for a minute, but HTF did the Spurs get two personal fouls in 3.1 seconds?

[Fermixalot]

Doesn't seem like Farmer is looking for his shot. He does have 3 rebounds and an assist. Think he heard the halftime interview?

[benefactor]

It really looks like Pop has been trying to make up his mind on Farmer. He has put him in late in two quarters now...I'm guessing expecting to see the same thing he has been doing.

[Obstructed_View]

Doesn't seem like Farmer is looking for his shot. He does have 3 rebounds and an assist. Think he heard the halftime interview?

Like I mentioned earlier, Parker suddenly turned into AI both times Farmer came in.

[traitoravery]

:00.2 SA - Shooting foul on D. Farmer, I think Farmer just got cut in between the 3rd and the 4th quarter...

[Ice009]

How come Farmer is not shooting the ball?

Did Pop tell him to pass it to Mason and Bonner so they can try and get some confidence going. Take some shots Desmon.

[Obstructed_View]

Farmer's still in for the start of the fourth.

[Obstructed_View]

Spurs take the lead, thanks to Bonner.

[Fermixalot]

Bonner and Mason making a claim. Assist and three pointer.

[Slinkyman]

It really looks like Pop has been trying to make up his mind on Farmer. He has put him in late in two quarters now...I'm guessing expecting to see the same thing he has been doing.

maybe pop's already made up his mind, maybe he's already getting his rotation ready for opening night which would mean farmer's on the team.

[traitoravery]

We got the lead.... rofl

[DPG21920]

all this without wade

[timtonymanu]

Bonner making his case

[Fermixalot]

Spurs up one on Bonner layup

[Ice009]

Bonner getting it going.

[Ice009]

Who knows what Pop is thinking? He's really good at fooling us.


Someone said during one of the open practices that Pop said you'll be seeing a lot more of this guy this season. He was talking about Bonner.

That either means Bonner is gone or that we will be seeing a lot more of him ;).

You never know with Pop.

[Fermixalot]

another assist for Farmer. I wish he'd hit a few shots though. But he is showing that he's not entirely one-dimensional. Good for him

[tp2021]

Out of curiosity, who exactly would trade for a guy who sucks? The Spurs would either need to throw in something really valuable or take something back that sucks as much or more. Since they need the roster spot that means they have to do the former. Who do you package with him that has value?

Ok, maybe i should have said they might actively search for a willing trade partner. I was playing around with the trade machine earlier, and I thought Washington would be a good trade partner, seeing as they need more bigmen help after Haywood went down. I couldn't get anything to work. I dont know if this trade makes any sense, but it works.

http://games.espn.go.com/nba/features/traderesult?players=&teams=&te=1996:19-209~2758:24-2448&cash=

Perhaps the Spurs could waive him after they get him.

[Obstructed_View]

It's pretty cool that Farmer, who might be playing for a spot on the team, and is primarily known as a scorer, is helping the team to play well without taking shots. If he were desperately forcing shit up without regard for the game situation he'd be a lot closer to playing his way off the team than he has been.

[ElNono]

It's pretty cool that Farmer, who might be playing for a spot on the team, and is primarily known as a scorer, is helping the team to play well without taking shots. If he were desperately forcing shit up without regard for the game situation he'd be a lot closer to playing his way off the team than he has been.

Agreed. And he's got the most +/- of any Spur right now, at +17

[Manufan909]

WTF just happened!?! The Spurs went from 68 to 77, and nba.com only recorded Obertos j!!!

[Obstructed_View]

WTF just happened!?! The Spurs went from 68 to 77, and nba.com only recorded Obertos j!!!

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/boxscore?gid=2008102424

[Fermixalot]

Off-topic, but does anyone else think Beasly looks like a woman in his ESPN profile pic.

[Obstructed_View]

Farmer's ball movement and court awareness are really good.

[ElNono]

Miami with 1/2 starters now...

[completely deck]

What is +/-?

[ElNono]

make that all their starters (obviously except wade)

[ElNono]

What is +/-?

How much the score changed while they where on the floor...

[Obstructed_View]

What is +/-?

I think it's how many points the team scores compared to the opponent while a player is in the game.

[Manufan909]

What is +/-?

An equation showing how the player affects the team, + is good, obviously, and vice versa.

EDIT: Probably what OV said.