Spurs vs. Rockets Oct. 6 - Game Blog

[Knoxxx]

Oh hell they are actual announcers!

[rayray2k8]

People are judging Ian too quickly. Kinda like people thinking Blair will average a double double in the regular season...
Not gonna happen.

[ThePop]

give me the link and i'll figure out how to remove the ad :toast

[ohmwrecker]

What is this ish shit? You can say shit, we are all adults here.

OK . . . never mind.

[manufan10]

lots of overeaction going on with Mahinmi.

I've liked what I've seen from him today, minus the foul trouble, but that just shows me he's being aggressive.

[rayray2k8]

People are judging Ian too quickly. Kinda like people thinking Blair will average a double double in the regular season...
Not gonna happen.

[kbrury]

Jerrells>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Williams lol

[benefactor]

Budinger can just flat shoot.

[kbrury]

except that TO lol

[Libri]

Hou, 83
sa, 75

[rayray2k8]

Weird.. I wonder how i did a double post then I click only once on the reply?

[ohmwrecker]

Has Keith Bogans hit one damn shot yet?

[benefactor]

Too much dribbling by Haislip...steal by Landry.

[EricB]

I like me some Curtis Jurrels...

[Solid D]

OMG!

Chicago just won at the buzzer in London. Crazy finish

Replay from earlier.

[TIMMYD!]

What is this ish shit? You can say shit, we are all adults here.

OK . . . never mind.

My thoughts exactly, shit shit.

[Double-Up]

C-Bud is looking like a smooth pimp out there and Blair is beasty.

[Mhak]

People are judging Ian too quickly. Kinda like people thinking Blair will average a double double in the regular season...
Not gonna happen.


Maybe so.. he has 5 fouls.. this is not summer league in which you can have 9 fouls.. dude's feet is not quick enough..

Foul troubles.. no thanks.

[benefactor]

I like me some Curtis Jurrels...
He seems to have some decent qualities. He would be a good addition to the Toros.

[ElNono]

OMG!

Chicago just won at the buzzer in London. Crazy finish

It's like 4 AM in London right now. I'm pretty sure it's a rerun...

[Manufan909]

Hairston on having 10 minutes at this point is criminal. He should've had ten minutes in the first half. From the boxscore he obviously shot well, is there some reason why he didn't get much burn?

[benefactor]

Way too much dribbling by Jerrells. Turnover.

[loveforthegame]

I know it's early to judge but I like Jerrells on this team over Williams.

I don't see anything out of Bogans or Haislip to push them ahead of Finley in the depth chart. It can certainly happen as the season but that probably kills the Finley haters hoping for it to happen now.

OTH, Hairston could easily move ahead of Finley if he keeps playing like this.

[Manufan909]

Haislip with the crossover and drive, nice. Got the foul but it wasn't shooting, then he got a TO.

[benefactor]

Haislip with another turnover.

[angelbelow]

do you guys think blair will be held out for the 4th?

[Mhak]

I know it's early to judge but I like Jerrells on this team over Williams.

I don't see anything out of Bogans or Haislip to push them ahead of Finley in the depth chart. It can certainly happen as the season but that probably kills the Finley haters hoping for it to happen now.

OTH, Hairston could easily move ahead of Finley if he keeps playing like this.


Jerrell tribbles to much!!!!

I dont like either of them

[benefactor]

lol Adleman still having Landry in the game.

[aksyunstar]

woot woot. thanks completely deck.

hope blair will reach 20-20..

[murpjf88]

Haslip is an absolute joke!!! Garbage pick up!!!

[waly.mg]

Some stats

17 TO
20 PF

Houston only 3 OR
Spurs 40 Rebounds - Houston 31

[HarlemHeat37]

Hairston actually dribbled and made some moves to get past multiple guys and got the foul call..last year, that's easily a TO..

[EricB]

I love what I see out of Haislip.

[JR3]

okay im bored.. no one is even in that i want to watch... blair spoiled me though

[spursballer21]

where can i watch it and if needs password send it too plz

[benefactor]

Ian doing a good job altering a shot inside.

[Libri]

Rockets, 90
Spurs, 77

[ohmwrecker]

Haislip is a disappointment. Hopefully, he is just having a bad game.

[EricB]

Adios Dwayne Jones and Marcus Williams IIWU2M after the game.

[HarlemHeat37]

Hairston 2 straight turnovers..trying to do too much now..play your role..

[rayray2k8]

I gave up on looking for a streaming video. Im listening to WOAI 1200.

[benefactor]

okay im bored.. no one is even in that i want to watch... blair spoiled me though
Spoiled is probably the appropriate word.

[kbrury]

Haislip is a disappointment. Hopefully, he is just having a bad game.
I wouldnt say that

[rayray2k8]

Surprised Ian hasn't fouled out by now... :p

[manufan10]

I love what I see out of Haislip.

So do I, the guy is just being a little bit timid on the defensive side of the ball. With experience that will go away.

[benefactor]

Haislip is a disappointment. Hopefully, he is just having a bad game.
Give him time...it's just one preseason game. He needs to work on his defense badly though if he expects to guard some the players that the Spurs expect him to guard.

[kbrury]

Only 4 pts this quarter.... lame

At least it shows that Hill was getting the offense moving.

[VivaPopovich]

Dejuan blair 19 rebounds what the f***

great, matt bonner starting power forward again. i dont give a s*** how many jumpers he hits, if his albino ass doesnt grab rebounds he can take that jersey off

pathetic

[angelbelow]

damn 2 bad plays by malik.

[JR3]

Spoiled is probably the appropriate word.

I'm proud that my team has players that spoil me. 5th ring on the way... my wife can't say that...

[ohmwrecker]

Has anyone been able to locate a box score?

[benefactor]

Hairston...yikes.

[JR3]

Dejuan blair 19 rebounds what the f***

and this is in 3 quarters right?

[Sense]

Blair is gonna be huge for the Spurs this season

[peskypesky]

Has anyone been able to locate a box score?

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/boxscore?gid=2009100624

[benefactor]

I'm proud that my team has players that spoil me. 5th ring on the way... my wife can't say that...
Good for you. I'm sure you will be gone after Duncan retires too.

...and I won't ever compare the Spurs to my wife. Ever.

[TIMMYD!]

Blair=Beast

[manufan10]

Good for you. I'm sure you will be gone after Duncan retires too.

...and I won't ever compare the Spurs to my wife. Ever.

He gets sexual pleasure out of the Spurs. :wow

[benefactor]

Landry just owning Ian.

[Libri]

Ian fouls out

[ohmwrecker]

Thanks.

[kbrury]

Just cut williams plz

[manufan10]

Landry fouls out.

[angelbelow]

damn i just noticed that blair only played 22 mins WOW

[ohmwrecker]

Mahinmi . . . bleh.

[benefactor]

I am oozing insecurity.

[HarlemHeat37]

This is getting ugly. Don't be too excited about Blair, he was out there against a bunch wings and guards.

you realize he was playing against the same big men that took your team to 7 last year, right?..

[Russ]

Blair is a flat out warrior (unlike some other young bigs on the roster)

[EricB]

Mahinmi got screwed on the 6th foul.

[DPG21920]

Benefactor, careful he will start cyber stalking you, find out your name and then ask for pictures.

[Buddy Holly]

This is getting ugly. Don't be too excited about Blair, he was out there against a bunch wings and guards.

Scola and Landry are wings or guards? :lmao

Self delusion is grand.

[bbarry]

lol at that laker fans saying it's getting ugly. how about realizing the fact that pop isn't even tryign whatsoever in winning this preseason, meaningless game. no parker, duncan, mcdyess, ratliff, and manu/rj only playing like 25 combined mins ( ZERO MINS IN SECOND HALF)

[JR3]

Good for you. I'm sure you will be gone after Duncan retires too.

...and I won't ever compare the Spurs to my wife. Ever.

chill dude.. i was just joking... FYI Ive been a spurs fan since far before Tim Duncan, and will be when he is gone. I grew up in San Antonio, there is just no other way I can go. Don't be fooled by my low post count, this isn't my first Spurs Forum. You should consider the fact that You don't know Me before being judgemental. Relax.

[Thompson]

Mahinmi got screwed on the 6th foul.

And 2 other ones. Some people here need to shut up about Ian and give him a chance.

[EricB]

This is getting ugly. Don't be too excited about Blair, he was out there against a bunch wings and guards.

When did Carl Landry become a wing you fucktard?

[ohmwrecker]

Scola and Landry are wings or guards? :lmao

Self delusion is grand.

Lakers fans get confused when they see tough, rugged fowards.

[Sense]

This is getting ugly. Don't be too excited about Blair, he was out there against a bunch wings and guards.

Are you watching the game?

I highly doubt you are....

I was all "meh" about the preseason... but Blair looks like a beast.

Landry was actually trying against him and honestly Blair made him look like the rookie.

[benefactor]

lol Hill destroying the Rockets fast break all by himself.

[Manufan909]

lol at that laker fans saying it's getting ugly. how about realizing the fact that pop isn't even tryign whatsoever in winning this preseason, meaningless game. no parker, duncan, mcdyess, ratliff, manu only like 12 mins.

:dont

[ChumpDumper]

lakerfan just watched an entire Spurs/Rockets preseason game and still doesn't know what positions guys play.

Sad life.

[manufan10]

and 2 other ones. Some people here need to shut up about ian and give him a chance.

+1

[Sigz]

What a loser. Get his glassgina out of here.

[ohmwrecker]

Hill is having a nice game. I'd like to see some more assists though.

[picnroll]

This is getting ugly. Don't be too excited about Blair, he was out there against a bunch wings and guards.

Blair bitch slapped Hayes, the guy who made the Lakers his girlfriends.

[Pistons < Spurs]

from Twitter:

RicBucher Blair update: 19 rebs, 22 min vs Carl Landry, DAndersen. Glass eater but no rim protection and no discernible post game. Think Paul Millsap.

RicBucher Pop: "George Hill is my favorite player right now." He was serious, but Pop always has to throw a curve. Previous favorite player: "Rasho."

RicBucher For those who only remember Malik for his Knicks' and late Spurs days, he was, once upon a time, a fan fav. As Blair is already.

RicBucher DeJuan Blair drawing Malik Rose comparisons 2night. Good (8 rebs in 9 min) and bad (2 for 8).

[SpursNextRomanEmpire]

lakerfan doesnt even know basketball positions

[Libri]

game over

[totalspurshomer]

Big thanks to completely deck

[benefactor]

chill dude.. i was just joking... FYI Ive been a spurs fan since far before Tim Duncan, and will be when he is gone. I grew up in San Antonio, there is just no other way I can go. Don't be fooled by my low post count, this isn't my first Spurs Forum. You should consider the fact that You don't know Me before being judgemental. Relax.
http://cdn1.knowyourmeme.com/i/3372/original/1244741913860.jpg

[JR3]

Big thanks to completely deck

I 2nd this. Thanks!

[bbarry]

:dont

got it :toast

[ElNono]

The good news is that Williams will probably be gone by October 28...

[ElNono]

big thanks to completely deck

+1

[EricB]

I'm an authority on the sport kid.


Child please.

[benefactor]

Lots of positives tonight. Better defense would be at the top of my wish list for next game.

[SpursNextRomanEmpire]

I'm an authority on the sport kid.

Well maybe you should reevaluate your job, because someone sure as hell went wrong in allowing you to be an "authority on the sport"

[Shastafarian]

Lakerfan is funny

[Flux451]

This is getting ugly. Don't be too excited about Blair, he was out there against a bunch wings and guards.

Such as Scola and Hayes?

[ElNono]

What's with the scared, insecure Laker troll?

[rayray2k8]

Well that was fun. Only 21 days till the season starts, can't wait till the spurs go at full strength. :)

[angelbelow]

lakerfan just watched an entire Spurs/Rockets preseason game and still doesn't know what positions guys play.

Sad life.

haha true

[pad300]

The good news is that Williams will probably be gone by October 28...

Maybe it's just a coincidence, but there were 4 positive +/- numbers on the team

Hairston +1
Hill +3
Blair +3

and of course

Williams +8

Something stick out there? I wouldn't be exceedingly quick to write him off... Especially not off of one pre-season game.

[duncan228]

Final: Rockets 99, Spurs 85 (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2009/10/spurs-vs-rocket-4.html)
By Joe Alexander

The Houston Rockets beat the Spurs 99-85 but DeJuan Blair stole the show in the preseasonopener for both teams Tuesday night at the AT&T Center.

Blair, the rookie big man from Pittsburgh, had 16 points and 19 rebounds. Malik Hairston scored all of his 10 points in the second half.

Matt Bonner, one of the few Spurs veterans to play, had 14 points and hit 4 of 7 from 3-point range - all in the first half. George Hill started at point guard and had 15 points and four assists.

Manu Ginobili started played 13 minutes and 37 seconds. He had four points, two rebounds and one steal. Richard Jefferson played 15 minutes and 23 seconds had six points and two rebounds.

Ian Mahinmi fouled out with 3:53 left in the game. He had three points and four rebounds.

Timeout: The Rockets lead 90-77 with 5:40 left in the game.

The Rockets lead 83-75 with 8:57 left in the game.

THIRD QUARTER

The Rockets lead 79-73 at the end of the third quarter. The Spurs are getting an energetic second half from a lot of young players. DeJuan Blair is up to 16 points and 19 rebounds - including an offensive rebound and basket in the final second of the quarter. Malik Hairston didn't play in the first half. He has eight points in the third quarter.

The Spurs are back within two. The Rockets lead 71-69 with 2:32 left in the third quarter.

Timeout. The Rockets lead 68-62. Spurs have outscored them 17-10 in the first seven minutes of the second half.

SECOND QUARTER

The Spurs were better on defense the second quarter. The Rockets' shooting percentage dropped by 11 points. The Rockets lead 58-45 at halftime. DeJuan Blair has eight points (2 of 9 shooting, 4 of 5 free throws) and 11 rebounds. Matt Bonner is 4 of 7 from 3-point range. He leads all scorers with 14 points.

The Rockets lead 39-26 with 8:54 left in the second quarter. Timeout.

FIRST QUARTER

The Rockets shoot 63.6 percent from the field in the first quarter and finish the period with a 35-26 lead.

The Rockets lead 21-17 at the first timeout. Matt Bonner has hit two 3-pointers and leads the Spurs with eight points.

Spurs starters: George Hill, Manu Ginobili, Richard Jefferson, Matt Bonner and Ian Mahinmi. Tim Duncan, Michael Finley, Antonio McDyess and Tony Parker are sitting out tonight.

[ohmwrecker]

Thanks to Deck. I feel pretty positive about the "new look" Spurs. Agree about the defense, that needs to be a whole lot better. Hill looks good, but needs to find his shooters. Mahinmi is just . . . you're killing me, bro. Hairston and Haislip need a little more consistency. The team overall just needs to settle down a little.

Dejuan Blair is awesome, as expected.

[angelbelow]

you realize he was playing against the same big men that took your team to 7 last year, right?..

:lmao

[EricB]

Look at my arguement change. Typical troll.

[djohn2oo8]

rockets acting like they are WC champs.... :lol

Spurs fans acting like Blair is the next Duncan is hilarious considering it was one PRESEASON game

[EricB]

Thanks to Deck. I feel pretty positive about the "new look" Spurs. Agree about the defense, that needs to be a whole lot better. Hill looks good, but needs to find his shooters. Mahinmi is just . . . you're killing me, bro. Hairston and Haislip need a little more consistency. The team overall just needs to settle down a little.

Dejuan Blair is awesome, as expected.

:lol @ the bozos ripping on Mahinmi.

He got 3 BS calls against him and all of sudden he's bad.

Ok...

[ChumpDumper]

Spurs fans acting like Blair is the next Duncan is hilarious considering it was one PRESEASON gameNot the next Duncan.

He just really made getting boards against the Rockets look easy.

[EricB]

Spurs fans acting like Blair is the next Duncan is hilarious considering it was one PRESEASON game


Against your best bigmen ALL GAME.

Keep it up.

[DJB]

I never thought I would see so many other fans come in a thread such as this and actually be concerned with our assessments of our new players.

Get.
A.
Fucking.
Life.

[Reeko_Htown]

Not the next Duncan.

He just really made getting boards against the Rockets look easy.


wait for his non-knees to give out in a couple of years.

[Flux451]

I mean if you feel good getting blown out by a dub to guys like Scola and Hayes and the rest of Houston scrubs, then ok. You just gave their fans hope. Watch the increase in activity you'll see.

It's not about winning in preseason. Blair showed great signs. His IQ looks good and he did well against Scola and Hayes. Two players that gave the Lakers a run for their money last year.

And I could care less if the Houston fans cream themselves because of this, you obviously think about the most superficial things when it comes to basketball.

[picnroll]

Spurs fans acting like Blair is the next Duncan is hilarious considering it was one PRESEASON game

How in the world did you let a 6'5" guy out rebound, no dominate, your best rebounders?

[DPG21920]

Lakaluva, you truly are the biggest douche on the site. How did you find out my name by the way? That is almost as creepy as you asking for pictures of George Hill's penis.

[ChumpDumper]

wait for his non-knees to give out in a couple of years.Praying for injuries?

Classy.

I hope Yao and Tracy get well soon.

[Flux451]

wait for his non-knees to give out in a couple of years.

It's kind of like waiting for YAo Ming to play a full season.

[kbrury]

wait for his non-knees to give out in a couple of years.

Wait for Yao to be out of the NBA in a couple of years.

[wildbill2u]

I got to see the middle of the third quarter and all of the 4th. I was very disappointed in the play of the Spurs. There was no team play on offense. Everyone who got the ball wanted to hog it and shoot. I understand that these bench players feel they have to score to stay on the team, but by refusing to pass they often got into trouble and lost the ball. Bad basketball.

The Houston announcers never gave the names of the Spurs who were playing, even if they made the foul or the fT so I can't give you the worst villains, but it wasn't team basketball.

Mahimi was lame. He didn't look like someone who can play in this league right now.

[ohmwrecker]

:lol @ the bozos ripping on Mahinmi.

He got 3 BS calls against him and all of sudden he's bad.

Ok...

It wasn't the fouls. It was the 3pts, 3tos, and 4rbs.

[gm5k]

I never thought I would see so many other fans come in a thread such as this and actually be concerned with our assessments of our new players.

Get.
A.
Fucking.
Life.

well put. so true :rolleyes

[ohmwrecker]

Oh, and I almost forgot. Go fuck yourself.

[DaDakota]

Blair looked AWESOME !!!

Is it true he has no ACL's?

DD

[angelbelow]

On a positive note, whats up with Pop and Hairston. The kid can play and should make the squad.

He probably will.

[kbrury]

I got to see the middle of the third quarter and all of the 4th. I was very disappointed in the play of the Spurs. There was no team play on offense. Everyone who got the ball wanted to hog it and shoot. I understand that these bench players feel they have to score to stay on the team, but by refusing to pass they often got into trouble and lost the ball. Bad basketball.

The Houston announcers never gave the names of the Spurs who were playing, even if they made the foul or the fT so I can't give you the worst villains, but it wasn't team basketball.

Mahimi was lame. He didn't look like someone who can play in this league right now.

Mahinmi was in foul trouble but he played with a lot of energy and the defense of the team was better when he was in the game during the first half.

[DPG21920]

Ian was the best defensive big the Spurs had tonight.

[djohn2oo8]

Against your best bigmen ALL GAME.

Keep it up.

Against a team with NO size

[ChumpDumper]

Blair looked AWESOME !!!

Is it true he has no ACL's?

DDIt's true.

The upshot is he can't tear them if they don't exist.

[Flux451]

Blair looked AWESOME !!!

Is it true he has no ACL's?

DD

Yes it is. thanks

[benefactor]

Ian still looks really awkward. He played with energy but he looks far from smooth on the pick and roll and he got abused badly by Scola and Landry. Jury is still out for now.

[benefactor]

On a positive note though...he did a nice job altering shots when players would drive to the lane.

[ElNono]

Maybe it's just a coincidence, but there were 4 positive +/- numbers on the team

Hairston +1
Hill +3
Blair +3

and of course

Williams +8

Something stick out there? I wouldn't be exceedingly quick to write him off... Especially not off of one pre-season game.

I would.

[ohmwrecker]

Mahinmi was in foul trouble but he played with a lot of energy and the defense of the team was better when he was in the game during the first half.

That is true. I will concede that point. He does offer a defensive post "presence".

[angelbelow]

On a positive note though...he did a nice job altering shots when players would drive to the lane.

Yup, the few minutes of him that i saw in the 2nd half was solid interms of help D.

[benefactor]

I would.
Me too. Williams is just taking up a uniform for now. There is no way he takes the final spot from Hairston.

[Flux451]

I would.

I concur.

Right now isn't the time for a player to hesitate or look unsure.

[kbrury]

It was a bad matchup for Ian tonight but he looks better. I think he and the whole team(who played tonight) will look better on rotations as the preseason goes along. Im wondering if they even practiced with these lineups IMO I don't think so.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I played 2k10 today and dunked over KG with Hairston. That's all the proof we need that he'll make the team.

[TIMMYD!]

There will never be another Tim.

[DPG21920]

I know it is still early, but Bogans has looked pretty bad overall.

[duncan228]

Rockets beat Spurs in Ginobili’s return (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/recap?gid=2009100624)

Trevor Ariza scored nine points in his Rockets debut, helping Houston beat the San Antonio Spurs 99-85 on Tuesday night in the preseason opener for both teams.

Carl Landry had 19 points to lead the Rockets, who are beginning the season without the cornerstones of their team. Yao Ming is out for the season after his broken left foot was slow healing, and Tracy McGrady is recovering from microfracture surgery on his left knee, and is not expect back until midseason.

Ron Artest, the other big name from last season’s team, left for the Lakers in the offseason. Taking his place is Ariza, who helped Los Angeles win the championship.

The Spurs’ Manu Ginobili saw his first action since a stress fracture in his right leg discovered on April 5 sidelined him last season. He played 13 minutes, scoring four points on 1-of-4 shooting.

San Antonio played without Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, and Michael Finley, who were sitting in street clothes along with new teammates Theo Ratliff and Antonio McDyess. Rookie DeJuan Blair took advantage of the playing time with 16 points and 19 rebounds in 22 minutes.

Houston also played without starter Shane Battier.

[ohmwrecker]

I think the coaching staff would prefer someone who makes mistakes, but plays with energy and confidence to a player who is timid and indecisive.

[kbrury]

Haislip tonight was a mixed bag a couple good shots in his first stint but defense needs some work. It seemed like he was trying to be a point forward I wonder if Pop told him to do that?

[spursnatic]

I know it is the pre-season and all?...But how the fuck did we lose to the Rockets?....We had more depth playing tonight than they did......

[xellos88330]

Spurs lost tonight due to the fast break. Transition D needs to be picked up.

[kbrury]

uhhh No Duncan, Parker, McDyess, Finley, Ratliff, plus Ginobili and Jefferson only played about 15-16 min or so.

[duncan228]

Rockets beat San Antonio in preseason opener (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/6655775.html)
Adelman's team starts fast, eases past makeshift Spurs squad
By Jonathan Feigen

SAN ANTONIO — Trevor Ariza cut backdoor. Layup. Chase Budinger curled around a screen. Swish. Aaron Brooks flew up the floor on a break and then another, and another.

That was the first three minutes. After months of talking about it, the Rockets began their preseason doing just what they had promised.

Yet, as clearly as the Rockets demonstrated what they want to do, they showed the reasons — encouraging and troubling — why they want to do it.

Faster than Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and the other presumed San Antonio starters sitting on the Spurs’ bench could call ‘next’, the Rockets were dashing about the floor, scoring 15 fast break points in the first quarter, highlighting an easy 99-85 win over some of the Spurs at AT&T Center on Tuesday.

When the re-tooled, souped-up offense worked, the Rockets built a commanding lead. When they couldn’t, they struggled for stretches against San Antonio rookie DeJuan Blair and the star Spurs’ sparring partners.

In the second quarter, when the Rockets went to their bench, Blair dominated the boards, slowing the Rockets’ break. In the third quarter, San Antonio pounded the ball into the paint, drawing fouls, scoring inside and again keeping the Rockets in the starting blocks.

The Rockets had some bursts of offense after that rapid start. With Spurs big men Duncan, Antonio McDyess and Theo Ratliff watching, Carl Landry and Luis Scola posted up and scored well inside, combining to make 12 of 19 shots for 32 points, with Landry’s 19 points leading both teams.

More than anything, Budinger continued the torrid shooting he showed with the summer league and in training camp, making 7 of 10 shots to score 15 points.

The Rockets’ other rookies had a tougher time. Guard Jermaine Taylor made 3 of 9 shots. Center Chris Andersen 3 of 12, with five rebounds.

Ariza, after a good start, was unable to generate the offense he sought off the dribble, making 3 of 8 attempts for nine points.

Still, the Rockets accomplished most of what they could against the preseason version of the Spurs.

Rockets coach Rick Adelman had struggled to name anything in particular he wanted to see out of the re-tooled Rockets first preseason game, seeking only whatever information would come. But when pressed, he offered “Movement and pushing them ball.”

For a stunning stretch to start the game, the Rockets did both. They also showed why they need to.

[Russ]

Spurs fans acting like Blair is the next Duncan is hilarious considering it was one PRESEASON game

Blair comes up big whenever he suits up and wherever he plays. I would suspect that he dominates in practice (even). He's got a motor that never stops.

[HarlemHeat37]

some thoughts..

-George Hill looked as expected..he's never going to rack up high assist totals, that just isn't his style..he did what was asked though..he was aggressive, he got into the lane, he made a few Js..he was having trouble staying with Brooks, but everybody has trouble with his quickness from a 1 on 1 standpoint..

-RJ also looked as expected..even though he only played 15 minutes, it's pretty clear that he gives this team something we haven't had as a 4th option..

-Manu didn't really do anything..he wasn't very assertive and looked to get others involved instead..

-Blair had obvious highs, but he had some lows too..his defense obviously still needs a lot of work, and I wouldn't expect him to be more than an average defender this season..his J wasn't consistent, and he had some shot selection issues..

His rebounding was dominant, which is pretty much all we should care about..it looks like it's going to translate to this level..huge asset..it's also nice to see that he has some moves and a nice ability to finish creatively at the basket..he was also doing it against an elite post defender in Chuck Hayes..

-Bonner was on fire..he's still an asset to this team when he's coming off the bench..his defense and rebounding weren't good, as expected..

-Ian looked like he did in SL IMO, which is good and bad..he still has the foul issue, and he's still getting bad breaks from the refs, which happens to any raw big men in their first years..he is definitely a presence though, and that's something we don't have outside of Duncan and Ratliff..that alone will give him more chances to make the team..he altered shots, had a great block on Ariza..still raw as fuck though..I'll give him credit for moving without the ball, he had some good positioning where he didn't receive the ball, which happened in SL too..

-Mason didn't do much..he definitely looks a lot quicker than he did last year though..his shot wasn't going down though, and that's his role, so you can say he had a bad game..

-Bogans was pretty much invisible on the floor..I really don't know if he's a lock to make the team like most people thought he was..

-Haislip was mixed for me..he has a good first step and has good energy..he made a 3, which is obviously good..I didn't really like anything else though..he was pretty bad defensively, didn't rebound well..his role on the team is ideally for him to play the perimeter big role, but I don't see it..if his defense isn't better than Bonner's, than there's no reason for him to be on the team, since Bonner is a better offensive player by a decent margin..

-Hairston was very good until the last few plays..he's clearly improved as a player in every way..he showed good all-around play..when he played his role, he looked like a rotation player on this team..played great defense on Ariza..made a 3..finished very well at the basket, as usual..

the only time Hairston looked bad was the same reason he had 4 turnovers..3 of them came from Malik trying to do too much and play a playmaking role, which is obviously FAR from his ideal role..2 of the turnovers came from Hairston running the whole floor and trying to make a play, which isn't good basketball, and the other came from trying to create around multiple guys..

It was also nice to see Malik getting praise from the Rockets announcers, including the usual "how do the Spurs find these guys?" comment..

-I don't really know what to say about Marcus Williams..he had a nice drive to the basket for 2..I didn't really notice him on the floor the rest of the time..you can check benefactor and elnono's comments about Williams, and that will tell you how he looked:lol

[JR3]

I played 2k10 today and dunked over KG with Hairston. That's all the proof we need that he'll make the team.

I got it today too.. its sweet. Played the rockets, dunked over everyone with RJ

[angelbelow]

some thoughts..

-George Hill looked as expected..he's never going to rack up high assist totals, that just isn't his style..he did what was asked though..he was aggressive, he got into the lane, he made a few Js..he was having trouble staying with Brooks, but everybody has trouble with his quickness from a 1 on 1 standpoint..

-RJ also looked as expected..even though he only played 15 minutes, it's pretty clear that he gives this team something we haven't had as a 4th option..

-Manu didn't really do anything..he wasn't very assertive and looked to get others involved instead..

-Blair had obvious highs, but he had some lows too..his defense obviously still needs a lot of work, and I wouldn't expect him to be more than an average defender this season..his J wasn't consistent, and he had some shot selection issues..

His rebounding was dominant, which is pretty much all we should care about..it looks like it's going to translate to this level..huge asset..it's also nice to see that he has some moves and a nice ability to finish creatively at the basket..he was also doing it against an elite post defender in Chuck Hayes..

-Bonner was on fire..he's still an asset to this team when he's coming off the bench..his defense and rebounding weren't good, as expected..

-Ian looked like he did in SL IMO, which is good and bad..he still has the foul issue, and he's still getting bad breaks from the refs, which happens to any raw big men in their first years..he is definitely a presence though, and that's something we don't have outside of Duncan and Ratliff..that alone will give him more chances to make the team..he altered shots, had a great block on Ariza..still raw as fuck though..I'll give him credit for moving without the ball, he had some good positioning where he didn't receive the ball, which happened in SL too..

-Mason didn't do much..he definitely looks a lot quicker than he did last year though..his shot wasn't going down though, and that's his role, so you can say he had a bad game..

-Bogans was pretty much invisible on the floor..I really don't know if he's a lock to make the team like most people thought he was..

-Haislip was mixed for me..he has a good first step and has good energy..he made a 3, which is obviously good..I didn't really like anything else though..he was pretty bad defensively, didn't rebound well..his role on the team is ideally for him to play the perimeter big role, but I don't see it..if his defense isn't better than Bonner's, than there's no reason for him to be on the team, since Bonner is a better offensive player by a decent margin..

-Hairston was very good until the last few plays..he's clearly improved as a player in every way..he showed good all-around play..when he played his role, he looked like a rotation player on this team..played great defense on Ariza..made a 3..finished very well at the basket, as usual..

the only time Hairston looked bad was the same reason he had 4 turnovers..3 of them came from Malik trying to do too much and play a playmaking role, which is obviously FAR from his ideal role..2 of the turnovers came from Hairston running the whole floor and trying to make a play, which isn't good basketball, and the other came from trying to create around multiple guys..

It was also nice to see Malik getting praise from the Rockets announcers, including the usual "how do the Spurs find these guys?" comment..

-I don't really know what to say about Marcus Williams..he had a nice drive to the basket for 2..I didn't really notice him on the floor the rest of the time..you can check benefactor and elnono's comments about Williams, and that will tell you how he looked:lol

nice

[duncan228]

AUDIO: DeJuan Blair's postgame comments

AUDIO: Manu Ginobili's postgame comments

http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2009/10/spurs-vs-rocket-4.html

[peskypesky]

Blair comes up big whenever he suits up and wherever he plays. I would suspect that he dominates in practice (even). He's got a motor that never stops.

yep. he has IT.

[peskypesky]

wait for his non-knees to give out in a couple of years.

well, if it happens, it happens. but we'll have two more Championships by then.

:lobt::lobt::lobt::lobt::lobt::lobt:

[TDMVPDPOY]

is there a recap of the game from timvp or not?

i aint reading through 27 pages of post padding whores

[Borosai]

Missed it. Shucks.

[Ditty]

o well lets woop greeces ass on friday

will any of these games be on tv foreal

especially that okc game in austin

[completely deck]

is there a recap of the game from timvp or not?

i aint reading through 27 pages of post padding whores

Rockets won, played their main group minus Battier versus our bench. Doesn't matter.

Blair was a beast, got a double double and then some.

Mahinmi fouled out.

Bonner had 4 three's.

Hill looked good.

Haislip looks a little raw but potentially good as the third string.

Hairston was alright.

Jefferson was good in his short stint.

I don't think I missed anything else.

[024]

what's startling is that the spurs outrebounded the rockets even though the two best rebounders, mcdyess and duncan, did not play. it's not like scola and hayes are bad rebounders, they are actually above average in my opinion. more hype for blair.

[duncan228]

Updated.

Rockets beat Spurs in Ginobili’s return (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/recap?gid=2009100624&prov=ap)

Trevor Ariza scored nine points in his Rockets debut, helping Houston beat the San Antonio Spurs 99-85 on Tuesday night in the preseason opener for both teams.

Carl Landry had 19 points to lead the Rockets, who are beginning the season without the cornerstones of their team. Yao Ming is out for the season after his broken left foot was slow healing, and Tracy McGrady is recovering from microfracture surgery on his left knee, and is not expect back until midseason.

Ron Artest, the other big name from last season’s team, left for the Lakers in the offseason. Taking his place is Ariza, who helped Los Angeles win the championship.

“I thought it was a good game for us,” Rockets coach Rick Adelman said. “If we’re going to be successful, we have to have ball movement and player movement, as that is what this is all about.”

Rookie Chase Budinger had 15 points, Luis Scola 13 and Aaron Brooks 12 as the Rockets looked to the young players to step up.

“I had a lot of butterflies in my stomach coming into the game,” Budinger said. “I was able to knock down my first shot and it gave me a little confidence.”

The Spurs’ Manu Ginobili saw his first action since a stress fracture in his right leg discovered on April 5 sidelined him last season. He played 13 minutes, scoring four points on 1-of-4 shooting.

“It felt good to be back on the court,” Ginobili said. “I have been taking more 3-pointers than attacking, but the rest will come with time.”

Ginobili went through an up-and-down season, appearing in only 44 games before his injury. His only basket Tuesday was a 3-pointer, but the electric Argentine guard’s mere presence on the court drew loud applause from the fans.

“Well, you don’t have to be a coach to appreciate Manu on the court,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “Everybody enjoys watching him play. He’s a great player and to have him back is wonderful for all of us.”

San Antonio played without Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, and Michael Finley, who were sitting in street clothes along with new teammates Theo Ratliff and Antonio McDyess.

Richard Jefferson, who acquired in a four-player deal during the summer, only had six points, while free agent guard Keith Bogans was held scoreless in his debut.

Parker, who sprained his right ankle while playing for the French national team this summer, is being ushered into the season slowly by Popovich, along with Duncan. The perennial All-Star forward was bothered by sore knees all last season, and reported to camp 15 pounds lighter.

Rookie DeJuan Blair took advantage of the playing time with 16 points and 19 rebounds in 22 minutes.

“I did what coach Pop asked of me and that was to rebound,” said the rookie forward from Pittsburgh. “Everything else came after that. I just have to put forth a lot of energy and rebound.”

His layup tied it at 71 in the third quarter after the Spurs trailed by 16 points in the first half, but the Rockets quickly pulled away to take an 88-75 lead.

Houston also played without starter Shane Battier.

[Blackjack]

Nice post.:tu


some thoughts..

-George Hill looked as expected..he's never going to rack up high assist totals, that just isn't his style..he did what was asked though..he was aggressive, he got into the lane, he made a few Js..he was having trouble staying with Brooks, but everybody has trouble with his quickness from a 1 on 1 standpoint..

Pretty much agree.:tu

Although, I didn't think he was as aggressive as he could have been or being decisive enough at times.

The added confidence is noticeable and his comfort-level with his shot and the offense has definitely improved. He basically looked like he went out there to run the offense and try to set the table, which I thought he did a decent job of. Not a stand-out performance, but one he can definitely build upon


-RJ also looked as expected..even though he only played 15 minutes, it's pretty clear that he gives this team something we haven't had as a 4th option..

That pretty much looked like a veteran, first-game-of-the-preseason outing. There wasn't much there to really comment on offensively, nothing we didn't already know, but the ease in which Ariza got by him was a little eye-opening. Although it was his first preseason game and you don't usually want to make snap-judgements, I'm no more optimistic with him being the primary defender. Great addition and I'm glad to have him on the Spurs, but I'm going to worry a little if he's going to be their best perimeter-defender.



-Blair had obvious highs, but he had some lows too..his defense obviously still needs a lot of work, and I wouldn't expect him to be more than an average defender this season..his J wasn't consistent, and he had some shot selection issues..


His rebounding was dominant, which is pretty much all we should care about..it looks like it's going to translate to this level..huge asset..it's also nice to see that he has some moves and a nice ability to finish creatively at the basket..he was also doing it against an elite post defender in Chuck Hayes..

I don't have much of a problem with his shot-selection, because it's of the aggressive-variety and usually of a pretty high-percentage, but I definitely agree on his defensive performance.

His greatest assets on the defensive-end are is his strength and those long arms of his, but he too often gambles for the steal leaving him badly out of position. He'd probably be wise to pick up a thing or two from someone like Hayes or watch tape of someone like Thomas, or any other below-the-rim defender, who's noted for swiping at the ball and playing physical, position defense.

The kid's a monster, though. I mean, he's a little like Evans in his size and amazing nose for the ball, but he's got actual talent to go with the work-rate and relentlessness. This is going to sound like hyperbole but, the Spurs may have just had the NBA's best rebounder fall into their lap. The hands, the strength, the timing, the motor, and unlike most rebounding specialists like a Rodman or an Evans from a few years back, he can actually finish in traffic and put pressure on a defense instead of just keeping possessions alive; which he's also more than capable of.

Carl Landry also needs to send him a thank you card for not 'Thabeet-ing' him when he had the chance..:lol



-Ian looked like he did in SL IMO, which is good and bad..he still has the foul issue, and he's still getting bad breaks from the refs, which happens to any raw big men in their first years..he is definitely a presence though, and that's something we don't have outside of Duncan and Ratliff..that alone will give him more chances to make the team..he altered shots, had a great block on Ariza..still raw as fuck though..I'll give him credit for moving without the ball, he had some good positioning where he didn't receive the ball, which happened in SL too..

I don't completely disagree with you but after getting my first good look at him in awhile now, I realized something else. He's just not a very intelligent ball-player. He'll get to his spot in time to defend the post player but he won't go straight up with the hands to avoid the inevitable foul when the offender goes up to take a shot. He'll go out to set a pick out on the perimeter, and stick out a knee when there is absolutely no need for him to. It's like he does 85% correctly but it doesn't matter because that last 15% he neglects, prevents him from staying on the floor.

Now, he might not be the most intelligent ball-player or have the game come to him real instinctually, but there's definitely reason to be optimistic. The guy needs court-time, and a whole lot of it, because of the amount of time he's missed. He's got to find some kind of rhythm and comfort within his teammates and the offense so that he can just let his natural gifts shine.

It's like Coach Newman said, he's just got to understand that he only needs to be able to hit the boards, block/altar shots, be a presence, and be able to use all that length and athleticism he's been blessed with. They don't need him to be some offensive All-Star to warrant a spot in the rotation, just a guy that brings energy and a presence out there on both ends of the court.



-Bogans was pretty much invisible on the floor..I really don't know if he's a lock to make the team like most people thought he was..

From the little I was able to see of him defensively, he wasn't bad. But I'm with you. Other than his physique's striking resemblance to Billups, I'm not sure what he brings to this roster that a certain someone else doesn't..


-Haislip was mixed for me..he has a good first step and has good energy..he made a 3, which is obviously good..I didn't really like anything else though..he was pretty bad defensively, didn't rebound well..his role on the team is ideally for him to play the perimeter big role, but I don't see it..if his defense isn't better than Bonner's, than there's no reason for him to be on the team, since Bonner is a better offensive player by a decent margin..

Well, if he's expected to be any type of defensive-stopper for the long 3's/mobile 4's, the Spurs might want to rethink that.

He's got a nice touch and he looks pretty confident shooting the ball, but his athleticism and length don't look like they're going to translate to the defensive-end the way most hoped. He's light in the ass, not a great rebounder, and doesn't seem all that disciplined defensively. -- Although, the mere fact that he's not a red-headed white guy, might make his sub-par defense superior to even the well-positioned defense Bonner plays on occassion. It just seems like the confidence-level and effectiveness of players defended by Bonner goes through the roof, regardless of how well he plays them.:lol --

Haislip did have a sweet up-and-under layup on the baseline, though.:hat


-Hairston was very good until the last few plays..he's clearly improved as a player in every way..he showed good all-around play..when he played his role, he looked like a rotation player on this team..played great defense on Ariza..made a 3..finished very well at the basket, as usual..

the only time Hairston looked bad was the same reason he had 4 turnovers..3 of them came from Malik trying to do too much and play a playmaking role, which is obviously FAR from his ideal role..2 of the turnovers came from Hairston running the whole floor and trying to make a play, which isn't good basketball, and the other came from trying to create around multiple guys..

It was also nice to see Malik getting praise from the Rockets announcers, including the usual "how do the Spurs find these guys?" comment..

Quite simply, Hairston is the Spurs' best option right now for a defensive-stopper. Unless Bogans has some ungodly ability he's yet to unleash, I just can't see a sound basketball reason that Malik shouldn't be on this team.

I've been pushing Malik pretty much since the day he was drafted, so in that I'm a little biased, but he brings a toughness, skill set, and fearlessness that will only lead him to being a success.

The Spurs were always known for being hard-working professionals but with guy's like Malik and Blair, the physicality and fear-factor goes to a level that hasn't necessarily been there in the past.


-I don't really know what to say about Marcus Williams..he had a nice drive to the basket for 2..I didn't really notice him on the floor the rest of the time..you can check benefactor and elnono's comments about Williams, and that will tell you how he looked:lol

I'm not ready to jump to any conclusions after this game, but I expected much worse after some of the reviews from the scrimmage. He made more good decisions than bad, had a nice drive, shot with some confidence and didn't miss by much, but those aren't the kind of ringing endorsements that earn someone a roster spot.

Maybe with all the weapons on the floor, Marcus will somehow show the type of player the Spurs seemed so intrigued with.. But as of this moment, I just don't see how you can justify putting him on the final roster.

[Chillen]

Looking at the box score it seems Pop is trying to get Manu back in the swing of things, resting his proven Vets (Duncan, McDyess, Parker) while letting Jefferson get the swing of things and trying to see what Blair has to offer. Hill is playing TP's role, if they go 0-8 in the preseason but get the role players rolling, so be it. I wonder if we will see Duncan and McDyess suit up for a preseason game.

[Lars]

good game, Blair looking pretty good.

[Bukefal]

Too bad for the loss, but it was nice to see them play after such a while. Blair is awesome

[buttsR4rebounding]

wait for his non-knees to give out in a couple of years.

From the experts in big man leg injuries...

[LongtimeSpursFan]

[quote=BLACKJACK21;3728608]Nice post.:tu



Carl Landry also needs to send him a thank you card for not 'Thabeet-ing' him when he had the chance..:lol quote]


I was thinking the exact same thing when I saw last night. Blair nearly tore off Landry's arm on that rebound.

[lennyalderette]

From the experts in big man leg injuries...
thats good sign when rocket fans are praying for this guy to get injured right? i mean they are totally amazed at the wy he man handled scola hahahah

[phyzik]

Anyone know if someone is hosting a replay video of the entire game?

[carib]

At least our scrubs are better than yours so far. :lol

who is this lady

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

who is this lady

:lmao