At Peace with the Current Situation Heading into Game 5 of the 2013 NBA Finals

[timvp]

I was disheartened in the aftermath of the loss. Like Game 2, the Spurs had a chance to really take command -- only to let it slip through their fingers. However, after stepping back and taking a bigger picture look at these Finals, I'm at peace as a Spurs fan.

The Heat had everything going for them in Game 4. They had the emotional/motivation edge after getting blown out in Game 3. They went ahead and made their one series-altering adjustment they could make by starting a small lineup. Their Big 3 all played damn well. The Spurs turned it over 19 times and couldn't get an offensive rebound against their small ball unit -- which is at least partly bad luck. Parker was dealing with a new injury ... and just as important, the rest of the team was on edge not knowing how much Parker could do. You combine all of that and the Spurs shouldn't have been even as close as they were.

Game 5 will be a different story. The extra day of rest is huge (HUGE) for the Spurs. This time, they will have the emotional/motivation advantage. Parker will be healthier and the rest of the team will know better what to expect. Lineup-wise, the Spurs will make their counter-adjustment by starting a smaller lineup (whether that is Diaw, Neal or Ginobili in place of Splitter). I'm confident Duncan will play better. There's no way Ginobili has a worse game. Parker should also be better. Could Miami's Big 3 be better than they were in Game 4? Doubtful.

You add it up and the Spurs will have their chance to go up 3-2. Maybe it doesn't happen but everything is aligning for a much better chance than they had in Game 4.

If the Spurs can get Game 5, then -- IMO -- the pressure shifts to the Heat. The Spurs get two chances to win a game in Miami. All things considered, that'd be a great place to be in.

NBA championships are fvcking hard to win, especially for a team that on paper fits no historical mold. Big picture, there's nothing to be upset about regarding where the Spurs find themselves right now. Sure, getting an early knockout punch in Game 2 or Game 4 would have been fantastic but the Spurs remain right there with a legit opportunity to go up 3-2.

Now is not the time to lose hope; the fun is just beginning.

Believe.

[T Park]

Yeah this was the best game Miami has played in god knows how long. They all played perfect. Almost every shot went in, even tough ones from bosh and wade.

When the series started it was said, they shoot the long two, you live with it. They make it, tip your cap.

[SpurOutofTownFan]

I'm appalled at the reaction of some fans in this site calling out names and players. It seemed a lot like collective suicide there. I don't believe some people in here can survive another loss.

[siraulo23]

As I've said, I'm literally celebrating every play spurs are making right now in this series

Thats 2 sweet wins the spurs have already bagged, I'm more than happy with where they are right now regardless of what happens from here. Before the grizz series started I said if the spurs get in the finals, i consider it as if they won it all

[dallasmaverickslose]

I was disheartened in the aftermath of the loss. Like Game 2, the Spurs had a chance to really take command -- only to let it slip through their fingers. However, after stepping back and taking a bigger picture look at these Finals, I'm at peace as a Spurs fan.

The Heat had everything going for them in Game 4. They had the emotional/motivation edge after getting blown out in Game 3. They went ahead and made their one series-altering adjustment they could make by starting a small lineup. Their Big 3 all played damn well. The Spurs turned it over 19 times and couldn't get an offensive rebound against their small ball unit -- which is at least partly bad luck. Parker was dealing with a new injury ... and just as important, the rest of the team was on edge not knowing how much Parker could do. You combine all of that and the Spurs shouldn't have been even as close as they were.

Game 5 will be a different story. The extra day of rest is huge (HUGE) for the Spurs. This time, they will have the emotional/motivation advantage. Parker will be healthier and the rest of the team will know better what to expect. Lineup-wise, the Spurs will make their counter-adjustment by starting a smaller lineup (whether that is Diaw, Neal or Ginobili in place of Splitter). I'm confident Duncan will play better. There's no way Ginobili has a worse game. Parker should also be better. Could Miami's Big 3 be better than they were in Game 4? Doubtful.

You add it up and the Spurs will have their chance to go up 3-2. Maybe it doesn't happen but everything is aligning for a much better chance than they had in Game 4.

If the Spurs can get Game 5, then -- IMO -- the pressure shifts to the Heat. The Spurs get two chances to win a game in Miami. All things considered, that'd be a great place to be in.

NBA championships are fvcking hard to win, especially for a team that on paper fits no historical mold. Big picture, there's nothing to be upset about regarding where the Spurs find themselves right now. Sure, getting an early knockout punch in Game 2 or Game 4 would have been fantastic but the Spurs remain right there with a legit opportunity to go up 3-2.

Now is not the time to lose hope; the fun is just beginning.

Believe.


Thanks for this timvp, hopefully we can pull it together and win Sunday. That would be huge.

[MannyIsGod]

The reason we all get so sad after games like this is because this more than likely really is the last shot for this group (I know we've said that 34098349083 times over the past 5 years but still...) and I think we all want it so badly. Its frustrating because, quite frankly, it really does seem as though its the Heat's series to lose at times. Things do look better for game 5. I will agree with you there. By the same token, I keep wondering how much longer Danny Green is going to continue to be white hot from 3 point land and I wonder if in game 5 Gary Neal's stupid pull ups from 28 feet won't fall. While much has gone bad for the Spurs, much has gone well.

Also, every other time the Spurs were in the Finals, there was little doubt they were going to win. Maybe in Detroit but after Game 5 we all knew we had that. This one seems to teeter closer to the edge and is much more uncertain.

I'm going to hope for the best in game 5. I think at best we're even money. But thats not so bad at this point.

[MannyIsGod]

I'm appalled at the reaction of some fans in this site calling out names and players. It seemed a lot like collective suicide there. I don't believe some people in here can survive another loss.

:blah:blah:blah

Spurs players only deserve praise when they win. Not criticism when they under perform. Poor NBA Millionaires. Life is so tough for them. You should definitely be appalled!

[hater]

of course game 5 in the finals after being 2-2 is a dream come true.

this game will be forever cherrished in Spurs lore. win or lose

as I said, Spurs playing with house money. They already overachieved this season.

:tu :tu :tu :tu :tu

[slick'81]

I'm enjoying it even if the spurs lose it was a helluva ride to get back to the finals .if u would of told me before the season spurs would be 2-2 with the heat I wouldn't have believed it .sure it took a little luck for the team to get here but I still believe this spurs team can get game 5 and force Miami to win out to get that ring

[timvp]

Its frustrating because, quite frankly, it really does seem as though its the Heat's series to lose at times.

I mean, if we're being perfectly honest, it basically is. Miami at their best beats San Antonio at their best. It's tough to admit that in the middle of a series ... but it's true.

Thankfully, it's now a best out of three so all it takes is a couple great performances and it won't matter who is technically the team with the higher ceiling.

[Floyd Pacquiao]

I'm also at peace already. Looking back now the heat played the best game they could possibly play. The Spurs were still within striking distance for most of the game while playing their worst. Now the question here is can the heat play with that type of energy for back to back games?


The Spurs can pull this out. I believe, it's their destiny.

[NRHector]

I still believe the Spurs can win it

[superjames1992]

Good post, timvp. :tu

This forum has made me lose some faith in humanity tonight. So much vile filth being thrown towards our players. I wonder if many of the posters on here are even fans at all.

[jestersmash]

Good thread. 4 or 5 hours later I've come to terms with it as well. Overall I was proud of the guys for sticking in there for a good 3 quarters or so with Lebron playing at an MVP level and Wade playing at an All NBA level.

[jestersmash]

Good post, timvp. :tu

This forum has made me lose some faith in humanity tonight. So much vile filth being thrown towards Manu. I wonder if many of the posters on here are even fans at all.

FIFY

[jestersmash]

The universe would implode if the day ever came that superjames1992 complaiend about "vile filth" being thrown towards Tony Parker, for example :lmao

[AASATX]

Well said, still don't get why people react like they do. It's a tied series, not like were down 3-1. I'm realistic, were not going to win them all. Like everyone else I would have loved to see the Spurs win it all at home, but figured that was very unlikely. We took one in Miami like we needed, As long as we get 2 of 3 on our home court were in great shape. We then have two chances in Miami. Game 3 and 5 are the two big games, now if 5 doesn't go our way then I'll start to worry. I honestly believe Spurs have game 5. They know what it means if they don't take that game.

[BatManu20]

You pretty much just summed up how I'm feeling timvp. :tu

[DAF86]

Until proven otherwise I'm not going to trust in Manu Ginobili.

[timvp]

Until proven otherwise I'm not going to trust in Manu Ginobili.

He got dis. Stop being a hater.

[adonis827]

Timvp should be creating his jinx / pessimist thread so San Antonio could win.

[ElNono]

Yeah this was the best game Miami has played in god knows how long.

Game 3 in Indiana probably... and we were right there all the way to the 4th...

But hell yeah, it's the middle of June and the Spurs are still playing!

[superjames1992]

The universe would implode if the day ever came that superjames1992 complaiend about "vile filth" being thrown towards Tony Parker, for example :lmao

Incorrect. In any case, vile filth has also been spewed in Tiago's direction. Timmy has gotten some hate by some of our "fans", too.

[hsxvvd]

If someone said to me beginning of the season we'd have a 3 game series for a title even with Miami home court, I'd take it.

[spurraider21]

If the Memphis in 6 and Miami in 5 pessimist timvp believes, then dammit I Believe.

I've usually tried to be at least an objective homer/optimist, but dammit it just doesn't seem like its possible for the Spurs to lose in a finals series. Call it destiny or some other spiritual crap, but I just can't come to grips with the possibility of dropping this series. I've seen the Spurs lose in the playoffs many times, as we all have. Against Phoenix a couple of times, the Lakers, the Mavs, the Grizzlies, the Thunder. And while I was pissed as hell after those series, I was able to come to grips with it. But cmon. After sweeping the Lakers, the 4 minute miracle against Golden State, sweeping the freakin Grizzlies, and winning the 2 games against Miami the way we did, I just can't accept the possibility that this series could be lost.

Especially after the comeback against the Warriors. I couldn't even watch the damn game because I was at work, but my eyes were peeled as I was staring at the play by play of my NBA gametime app, reading Curry 3 after Curry 3. I left work with about 5 minutes left in the game, and obviously the radio here was playing the ******* Dodgers game on one station and the bleeping Angels game on the other, so I busted open the gametime app on my phone while driving home, and screamed after each shot was made (read, actually). I managed to get home near the end of the 1st OT, after following the play by play on my entire drive home. Of course, I had the game DVR-ed, but still. Will never forget that night. I refuse to believe that night was just another game in yet another Spurs playoff run that ultimately felt short.

Tonight, the Heat look great, but certainly not invincible. Mixed bag of emotions here, as evidenced by this all-over-the-place post, but dammit we gonna get this. :ihit

:flag:

[SpurSpurSpurs]

Before the grizz series started I said if the spurs get in the finals, i consider it as if they won it all

Same mentality I have during the Grizzlies series, but when we won (sweep), I just realized that our team is no fluke and we have a chance to win it all in. I may be greedy with this, but I know we can beat the Heat.

Re-focus, make adjustments and play as if this will be their last game. We may have a LITTLE chance of winning 2 more games, but it's better than having nothing.

We are the best team in the West! I know we can also be the champions this year!

GO SPURS GO! Believe!

[HI-FI]

I just hope we have a chance to win it in Miami. Despite certain players having "OK" games that really hurt us, we were still in it. I think our guys and coaches will take care of business for Game 5.

I suppose my faith or whatever you call it is nervous about us winning in Miami. Sorry but I don't trust Stern or anything he stands for. But who knows, shit happens, miracles happen, so I'd love to see a great ending.

[midnightpulp]

I'm not too broken up by this one. I also don't see it as a blown opportunity, either, considering the fact the Spurs didn't really beat themselves (like Game 1 of the '08 WCF or the '04 Semis or the '06 Semis). People will, of course, reference the turnovers, but that's what Miami does. It's simply not a matter of playing "smarter" and "taking care of the ball." That's their defensive bread-and-butter. Playing against them, you pretty much have to gameplan for the fact you're probably going to be forced into 15 turnovers and go from there.

Miami was at their best tonight (and the Spurs stayed right there with them for about 3 and 1/2 quarters), and when they are, they're pretty much unbeatable.

The encouraging thing to take away from this game is that it's doubtful Wade plays like that again. If he does, then, nothing you can do and you can sleep well as a fan knowing the Spurs lost to an all-time great team, which the Heat are when Wade plays like that.

[mudyez]

thanks timvp! now I'm feeling better!

From game one on I have a feeling this will turn out like the Pacers series with teams trading wins...But since we won game one thats fine with me.

[KaiRMD1]

You make a valid point sir. The heat players basically made what the Spurs were daring them to make, simple as that. Now we shall see the adjustment Pop makes.

[BillMc]

I was disheartened in the aftermath of the loss. Like Game 2, the Spurs had a chance to really take command -- only to let it slip through their fingers. However, after stepping back and taking a bigger picture look at these Finals, I'm at peace as a Spurs fan.

The Heat had everything going for them in Game 4. They had the emotional/motivation edge after getting blown out in Game 3. They went ahead and made their one series-altering adjustment they could make by starting a small lineup. Their Big 3 all played damn well. The Spurs turned it over 19 times and couldn't get an offensive rebound against their small ball unit -- which is at least partly bad luck. Parker was dealing with a new injury ... and just as important, the rest of the team was on edge not knowing how much Parker could do. You combine all of that and the Spurs shouldn't have been even as close as they were.

Game 5 will be a different story. The extra day of rest is huge (HUGE) for the Spurs. This time, they will have the emotional/motivation advantage. Parker will be healthier and the rest of the team will know better what to expect. Lineup-wise, the Spurs will make their counter-adjustment by starting a smaller lineup (whether that is Diaw, Neal or Ginobili in place of Splitter). I'm confident Duncan will play better. There's no way Ginobili has a worse game. Parker should also be better. Could Miami's Big 3 be better than they were in Game 4? Doubtful.

You add it up and the Spurs will have their chance to go up 3-2. Maybe it doesn't happen but everything is aligning for a much better chance than they had in Game 4.

If the Spurs can get Game 5, then -- IMO -- the pressure shifts to the Heat. The Spurs get two chances to win a game in Miami. All things considered, that'd be a great place to be in.

NBA championships are fvcking hard to win, especially for a team that on paper fits no historical mold. Big picture, there's nothing to be upset about regarding where the Spurs find themselves right now. Sure, getting an early knockout punch in Game 2 or Game 4 would have been fantastic but the Spurs remain right there with a legit opportunity to go up 3-2.

Now is not the time to lose hope; the fun is just beginning.

Believe.

This is well put and a nice perspective. We are in a good position, and I am very proud of our team.

Now, let's go out and win this thing. Sunday can't come soon enough.

[DrSteffo]

I'm appalled at the reaction of some fans in this site calling out names and players. It seemed a lot like collective suicide there. I don't believe some people in here can survive another loss.

Agreed. I think that they are just emotionally weak.

[100%duncan]

2 games TOSB's and you can rest for the whole summer. Just 2 games more.

[dg7md]

I don't think Ginobili should be relied on at all to go forward in this series. We should let Green or Leonard have his spot in the "Big 3" because he is done and cannot compete on this level anymore.

If we rely on Manu I think we're done, he's reckless without any real benefits aside from allowing the Heat to score off of turnovers.

Yes, it's still possible to win the series, but it won't be easy. We need to be tougher and more fearless, knock some players down and make them earn this dunks and layups.

If Splitter or Manu get more than 10 minutes each in the next games we will lose the series. They are worthless in this matchup.

[benefactor]

This is where I thought they would be. Split, lose game 4, win game 5 and head back to Miami with two shots at winning. Spurs in 7.

[boutons_deux]

With their backs against the wall, Heat played like Champions.

Now it's the Spurs with no room for anything but a win Sunday. Will they be able to play like Champions?

[Maddog]

Nice write up TMVP
This morning I was feeling better after this one than the sunday loss.
Miami played their best game to date in the playoffs. Tony was not a 100% and yet they where still within a shout until about 6 minutes to go.

[Stabula]

Best post you've had since the beginning of the playoffs tbh

[smaka]

Everything going well with my plan - Spurs in 6.

Believe.

[John B]

We handed the Heat the win by turning the ball over, a lot of them just careless passing, and giving them offensive rebounds and second, third chances. Duncan with 4 rebouns against their smaller line up. And yet we were tied in the half. Tony will be better next game, Manu couldn't be any worse, we play with more confidene and take a 3-2 lead and have 2 chances to win in Miami. I know Spurs could do it if they remain aggresive. Go Spurs Go!

[spurspokesman]

All these knee jerk reactions from the fans here on this board should be expected. They are real fans that want to see a storybook ending for the big three and keep hecklers and wagon Heat fans out there ears. Rather we could all admit it or not the spurs blew a huge oppurtunity tonight and it is on the big 3. The role players have overachieved and held it down, the big 3 have to take us home and haven't. But with that in mind I still say we beat Mia on there court in 7 with the big three turning back the clock in one last epic performance.

[polandprzem]

Manu turnovers are costly as fuck. When he does that Miami getting easy points. All those cross passes and all.


Spurs needs again to move the ball quicker and fucking take advantage of heat closing up fast. Why not more cutters when TD on low block? Again Heat are narrowing the space.

I'm not convinced even if IF IF IF we win game 5 we gonna win any game in Miami with their crowd, reserves and refs ...

We've seen collapses before

[Spurs7794]

It pissed me off during the game how unsharp every non french player was but prior to game 3, a friend asked me h ow nervous I was for game 3. I said not very because regardless, I expected the teams to split games 3 and 4. I thought at the time game 5 was the important one and its looking like exactly that.

[ffadicted]

tbqh, I doubt anyone in here called Spurs in 5, so I'm not really understanding where all the cliff jumping is from (can't be from blow out loss, cuz we did it to the heat game 2)

[George Gervin's Afro]

I'm appalled at the reaction of some fans in this site calling out names and players. It seemed a lot like collective suicide there. I don't believe some people in here can survive another loss.

lol... We could see a melt down of epic proportions..

[George Gervin's Afro]

We played so soft it was embarassing.

On the bright side at least Splitter's value has taken nosedive

[Legacy]

I still believe the Spurs can win it

Yep. That is all. :D

[team-work]

I consider the fact that we forced the Heat to play arguably their best game in the post-season and we only lost by 16 points a success.

Next game we may lose, but I fully appreciate we're still alive for at least 2 more games.

[pgardn]

Also, every other time the Spurs were in the Finals, there was little doubt they were going to win. Maybe in Detroit but after Game 5 we all knew we had that. This one seems to teeter closer to the edge and is much more uncertain.

.

This is the essence of competition. This series REALLY means something to us.

I am enjoying the hell out of this. I would have rather us win 4-0. But winning a series like this, a back and forth haymaker slugfest, will be so much sweeter in the end. This is the kind of competition I wish I was directly involved in.

Now having said this I hope Wade's knees freeze up cause I want to win. But if we beat them with him still having the capability he showed last night... Pure honey.

The struggle will make this epic if we win.

People will cry. They will physically sob.

[TheGreatYacht]

I'm going to say the exact same thing that I said heading into Game 3. The next game on Sunday is a MUST win. If the Spurs don't win Game 5 then there is no way in hell that they are going to win two games in Miami. Before the series started, the realistic part of me was thinking that in order for the Spurs to win it all, they will have to win two games on the road. Game 5 is a MUST win. Game 5 will be like a Game 7 for the Spurs. I can't wait for Game 5. Spurs HAVE to win Game 5.

[polandprzem]

tbqh, I doubt anyone in here called Spurs in 5, so I'm not really understanding where all the cliff jumping is from (can't be from blow out loss, cuz we did it to the heat game 2)

I did pick spurs in 5 :depressed

[Keepin' it real]

The only thing I hope to avoid IF the Spurs lose the series is a blowout in the final game. That would be painful to watch, regardless of the circumstances.

It's been a dozen years, but it still stings a little when I remember the 39 and 29 point shellackings the Lakers gave the Spurs in the 2001 WCF. Those were the two most disgusting games I've ever watched.

With that said, I'm still expecting a Game 7. And even though it is now clearly a long shot, maybe SOMEHOW Manu's game comes back from the abyss.

[Nathan89]

Heat had everything going from the start when pop decided to spit in Dwades face by putting Splitter on him.

[TheChillFactor]

This is a good series. They can beat us, we can beat them. If we win Game 5 we are in the driver's seat for our 5th title...

[tmtcsc]

Folks, if Miami lost, they were toast. If they wanted any chance in this series, they HAD to win. What did it take? Wade scoring 32 pts. Great game by him, let's see Miami keep it up. If they do and we don't respond, we lose.

[polandprzem]

This is a good series. They can beat us, we can beat them. If we win Game 5 we are in the driver's seat for our 5th title...

Not true. It will be anybodys game then.
Drivers seat would be 3-1 spurs lead and was 2-1 lead.

[carina_gino20]

He got dis. Stop being a hater.

You know what to do, timvp. I trust you will do the right thing. :ihit

[polandprzem]

You know what to do, timvp. I trust you will do the right thing. :ihit

heat in 5

[ironman2886]

I feel even better as a Spurs fan if Timvp feels at peace. This was just like game 2. If the Spurs take care of the ball and put in the effort, we win game 5.

[carina_gino20]

heat in 5

well there's that... :lol but Manu needs some serious mojo right now

[soxxx]

Like ive said, most of us said Spurs in 6 or 7.

We will win game 5, then have 2 chances to win it all. Tony was gassed, this 2 full days off will help Parker and Duncan,

[I. Hustle]

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2ns6nAYmE1qzjuqco1_500.png

[gameFACE]

I was dissappointed at the loss but it's unrealistic to believe you're going to take out a reigning champ in a sweep or in 5. Win Game 5 and the Spurs are up 3-2. That's a pretty damn good place to be for not having home court advantage.

[Spur|n|Austin]

Now is not the time to lose hope; the fun is just beginning.

Believe.

GSG - DF5!

[timtonymanurich]

I was disheartened in the aftermath of the loss. Like Game 2, the Spurs had a chance to really take command -- only to let it slip through their fingers. However, after stepping back and taking a bigger picture look at these Finals, I'm at peace as a Spurs fan.

The Heat had everything going for them in Game 4. They had the emotional/motivation edge after getting blown out in Game 3. They went ahead and made their one series-altering adjustment they could make by starting a small lineup. Their Big 3 all played damn well. The Spurs turned it over 19 times and couldn't get an offensive rebound against their small ball unit -- which is at least partly bad luck. Parker was dealing with a new injury ... and just as important, the rest of the team was on edge not knowing how much Parker could do. You combine all of that and the Spurs shouldn't have been even as close as they were.

Game 5 will be a different story. The extra day of rest is huge (HUGE) for the Spurs. This time, they will have the emotional/motivation advantage. Parker will be healthier and the rest of the team will know better what to expect. Lineup-wise, the Spurs will make their counter-adjustment by starting a smaller lineup (whether that is Diaw, Neal or Ginobili in place of Splitter). I'm confident Duncan will play better. There's no way Ginobili has a worse game. Parker should also be better. Could Miami's Big 3 be better than they were in Game 4? Doubtful.

You add it up and the Spurs will have their chance to go up 3-2. Maybe it doesn't happen but everything is aligning for a much better chance than they had in Game 4.

If the Spurs can get Game 5, then -- IMO -- the pressure shifts to the Heat. The Spurs get two chances to win a game in Miami. All things considered, that'd be a great place to be in.

NBA championships are fvcking hard to win, especially for a team that on paper fits no historical mold. Big picture, there's nothing to be upset about regarding where the Spurs find themselves right now. Sure, getting an early knockout punch in Game 2 or Game 4 would have been fantastic but the Spurs remain right there with a legit opportunity to go up 3-2.

Now is not the time to lose hope; the fun is just beginning.

Believe.

COULD not agree more.

I simply could NOT get on this board last night with every Spurs fan suddenly turning into Chicken Little and waiving the proverbial white flag.

We've likely seen Miami's BEST game. Too bad for them it was just game 4. NO WAY Dwainthebathtub--I'm dwowning has another game like that, LeDouchetard might, Bosh, -hhmmph he's still circling the drain IMHO.

Spurs STILL got this. Believe, be confident, most of all, Ginobili hasn't even showed up yet. If there ever was a time for him to appear, I'd rather it G5-7 rather than g1-4.

OBI-WAN GINOBILI.

[boutons_deux]

rest the Old Spurs? Heat need it, too

Bonner 33.164
Diaw 31.137
Duncan 37.112
Ginobili 35.844
Green 25.942
Joseph 21.784
Leonard 21.923
Neal 28.663
Parker 31.052
Splitter 28.422

Average 29.5043 Years

===========

Allen 37.866
Anderson 34.896
Battier 34.814
Bosh 29.197
Chalmers 27.047
Cole 24.638
Haslem 32.978
James 28.099
Miller 33.816
Wade 31.381

Average 31.4732

[DarrinS]

These few days of rest are just what the doctor ordered.

Give credit to the Heat -- they were just the better team last night. Their big 3 more than doubled the production of our big 3.

[silverblackfan]

Thanks for the positive thread, Op. I usually avoid ST after a loss just because of the cliff-jumping threads and troll bait. Although, I picked the Spurs in 5, I believe in this team down to the last minute of the final game. Miami played a great game and the Big 3 really showed up. We had like 1.5 of our Big 3 show up. Can't win those games.
Let's just hope Manu can get his crap together or let Pop adjust to Manu not being available to contribute.

Go Spurs and win on Sunday!

[Mugen]

Exactly.

People kinda overlook how great Miami is when they're hitting on all cylinders. When Wade/Bosh/LeBron all play like that then they're one of the best teams of the 21st century tbh. They just have another level that they can reach that the Spurs (or any other NBA team) can't match.

Game 5 is obviously huge but the Spurs have responded well to losses just as well this postseason. They just have to win that game and then it's anybody's series heading back to South Beach.

I would have been thrilled being up 3-1 but I'll take a 2-2 series with Game 5 at home.

[soxxx]

People are panicking because we havent won game 5 yet.

When we win game 5 Sunday this board will be at peace again. We will all be confident we can split in Miami. Lets win game 5.

[Blue Duck]

I'm rather envious of all of you guys that are so "at peace". This whole finals experience has been completely anxiety ridden for me and I'm finding it very difficult waiting between games. A fifth championship would mean everything to me as a fan and i just want it to be over already. The difference is that in every other spurs finals appearance, i never once felt nervous. Even after Detroit wiped the floor with us twice, i had zero anxiety, as i knew there was no way they would beat our guys in S.A. i still believe that the spurs are capable of two games with minimal turnover s and that many will wake up for one very crucial late game stretch. But, that said, i am not even in the vicinity of " at peace"!!!!! Go spurs!!!!!

[Spurish]

Its unrealistic to expect 3-game sweep in NBA Finals against defending champion given the 2-3-2 format. So we were always likely to need to win twice in Miami. We have done it once so far and we need to do it again. First thing first, get game 5 which would be a HUGE step forward

[elec99]

Yeah, when you dare them to shoot and they make it then you have to tip your hat off to them.
We expected lbj to be unstoppable in one game and this was it. And if all 3 play well at the same time, which they havent until yesterday, then they'd win. Can all 3 play well together again? Doubtful.

Game 5:

lbj will regress a little
bosh's game comes down
wade wont have a repeat performance

parker does better
hopefully timmy can play the same but with more rebounds
manu is the big question mark since he has not made an impact in this series.

Hopefully, with all the media scrutiny (not that he's watching) he'll be pissed off enough to make a difference. He cant do worse than last night, but he could still be sub-par.

There are 2 kinds of TOs: the one that leads to fast breaks and the one that doesnt. We had too many of the first last night.

As always, If we can clamp down on TOs, beat them in rebounds which leads to more FGA, we'll win 5. Law of averages says when we let them shoot from the outside there will be a game where they fall, and that was last night. It'd be doubtful they fall at the same rate in the next game.

[SAScrub]

Winning game 1 was nice because you knew the Spurs weren't going to sweep the middle 3 of this series. All along this was going to come down to winning a game 6 or a game 7 in Miami. If they are good enough to be champions, they'll do it.

[ThaBigFundamental21]

I 100% disagree. If the Spurs are at their absolute best, I feel they are better than Miami's best. I think we saw both teams best, in game one. The Spurs won, I don't want to hear so and so only had this amount of points. The same argument can be made that each team held each other to exactly what they got. If that makes sense. The Spurs will just out execute Miami, I fully believe that. That is the difference. Pop is the difference. Say what you want about him. He absolutely does more than other coach with what he has. Talent is not everything. Miami has the best player, San Antonio has the best team.

You can't tell me if Tim plays his best, Bosh is better than him at his best. Parker is better at his best than any of the Heat's PG's and it's not even close. Wade is better than our SG's at each other's best, but if Manu goes off we can bridge the gap, plus we have Green. Lebron is the best on the planet, but we have seen Leonard can more than hold his own against him. Splitter at his best is better than Turdman or Hasleem. Problem is you never know what Splitter brings. But we are speaking of players at their best.

It's a very close series, on the court, and on paper. It comes down to our coaching advantage IMO. I don't care what the wishy washy idiots on this site say, who jump all over Pop during the slightest adversity or bad fortune. His coaching helped get us here, he has brought us trophies in the past. I have absolute faith in him. We will see what happens. I don't want to hear this it's Miami's series to lose bullshit. We just drubbed them by 36 points, they punched us back. I don't want to fuckin hear it. It's a chess match. Each team gets knocked down, gets up, and knocks the other down. Until Miami actually goes up in the series, it's our series to lose, hence we have been up or tied the whole time. Miami has been trailing, and had to catch up to us. If you want to get on Miami's bandwagon, have fun. No one said this would be easy, it appears you all thought we would have a 3-1 series lead, and Miami would lay down. They are the defending champs and they have some pride too. Believe it or not, they are trying to win as well. Personally, I can't wait for game 5.

[J.T.]

I called Spurs in 6 and am sticking to that prediction. I didn't think we had a realistic shot at sweeping the three home games to begin with... the Spurs and the Heat are pretty even when it comes to home and road records, so I figured if we got one of their home games, they'd get one of ours. I do expect the Spurs to win Game 5, but this series thoroughly pisses me off. The Heat are very good, and when they get you to play their game they can run away with it. We've seen it in Game 2 and Game 4 where if the Spurs choke away just a couple possessions at the right time, they'll lose. To beat the Heat, they have to be on point at all times and never let off the gas. Hard to do when your best player is hurt and clearly couldn't finish the game in top form.

Like timvp I think the extra rest between now and the next game is a huge break for the Spurs. If Parker was to tweak his hammy, he picked the right game to do it in with Green and Neal beating the Heat by themselves and no real need to re-enter the game. I liked how Parker played on one day of rest last night. He should be able to sustain himself the rest of the series, but going hard and winning Game 5 is an absolute must. We can't go into the game thinking, oh Green, Neal and the rest of the shooters will man up and deliver another great game. The Heat just put together a pretty solid game from their best players. Now the Spurs have to do the same. I don't think we can reasonably expect a 30-point game from Ginobili like the Heat got from Wade, but even double his current production would be fantastic. I can't be happy until this series is over, win or lose. The days between games are so damn stressful. Hopefully the Spurs win a well played game on Sunday and can carry that kind of solid execution and teamwork back to Miami. That would be the most ideal situation. I would rather they NOT blow out the Heat if possible, because when Miami's in that "Damn, they whooped our ass" mode, they tend to return the favor next game. Extremely nervous about Game 5, but the Spurs have a few things working in their favor.

Spurs in 6.

[michaelwcho]

When great players like LBJ and Wade are hitting everything, you just have to tip your hat to them. They're great players. They don't embody all the virtues of basketball that I personally esteem, like teamwork, well-honed skills, and dead-eye shooting, but in this NBA, with these rules, they are great and can be awesome at times. For as well as they played on offense, it was really the turnovers and bad Spurs offense that doomed us. Somehow, the team has to prepare for Miami's A-game pressure and find a way to get decent shots. Take away a few turnovers and turn them into possessions and the team would have been within striking distance. Have a good plan B to change up the flow of the game and give those thoroughbreds a chance to remember they sometimes can't shoot straight. I know, easier said than done. That team's stacked and, as odd as I find their inconsistent effort level, has heart when it matters.

[mercos]

Miami played extremely well, but had to keep their starters in till the end to get a blowout. I completely agree with Timvp that this was the only big adjustment Miami had left to make. I think the quiver is now empty. Pop can now adjust, and Miami has nothing left to change. The Spurs played awful in the second half and only lost by 16. I still think San Antonio is a better team. That doesn't mean they will win, but I think they should be favored in game 5. Neither team seems able to put up back to back good performances in this series. The first team to accomplish that feat will win the series.

[Budkin]

The last game of the year, probably the last Finals game in San Antonio in God knows how long. No doubt in my mind we win. No doubt.

[Spurs21Fan4Ever]

Good post! Granted I'd hate losing to Miami, I can't stand that organization and especially LeBron, they're ruining basketbal. However, regardless what happens, I'm proud of this team. How this oranization has been run is magnificent. Parker and Ginobili were late draft picks, and they literally took rejects from Cleveland and Charlotte and are turning them into players that are having an impact in the Finals! No doubt I'm proud of this team and I'll always be thankful to be a fan of this team, not a bought dynasty with overhyped and overrated drama queens.

[Capt Bringdown]

Not at peace. Pop panicked from the get-go over Miami's small ball. This one will haunt us.

[Bill_Brasky]

Learn to finish in the lane.

Be patient with the ball. Miami cheats on D. If you're patient you wiwll get good shots.

Box the fuck out. If Tiago goes soft again there's a certain huge black man sitting on our bench who can come in for a few spot minutes and nig it up under the rim to get a few boards.

[Capt Bringdown]

Maybe we could study the tapes of how Indy was able to score in the paint? Seems to be a mystery for the Spurs.
Live and die by the 3 - I think we could do better against a Miami team that has such a big hole in the middle.

[Darius McCrary]

Did Parker get some kind of injection on his injury? I still can't make sense of him coming out fine, seemingly going out of his way to use as much energy as possible in thw first half, then being gassed. Maybe he knew the medicine would wear off and tried to milk his temporary pain relief for all it was worth.

[tuncaboylu]

The winner of Game 5 will win the championship.

Nothing lost yet.

[Rapper]

Spurs in 6.period.end of story

[DPG21920]

Winner of game 3 in a 1-1 series wins the series over 90% of the time. Beating MIA 3 straight, let alone even B2B was probably not reasonable. Win game 5 and you are in the exact situation that anyone who thought the Spurs could win would be in.

Spurs also have a much higher ceiling IMO for improvement this series.

[tesseractive]

I was disheartened in the aftermath of the loss. Like Game 2, the Spurs had a chance to really take command -- only to let it slip through their fingers. However, after stepping back and taking a bigger picture look at these Finals, I'm at peace as a Spurs fan.

The Heat had everything going for them in Game 4. They had the emotional/motivation edge after getting blown out in Game 3. They went ahead and made their one series-altering adjustment they could make by starting a small lineup. Their Big 3 all played damn well. The Spurs turned it over 19 times and couldn't get an offensive rebound against their small ball unit -- which is at least partly bad luck. Parker was dealing with a new injury ... and just as important, the rest of the team was on edge not knowing how much Parker could do. You combine all of that and the Spurs shouldn't have been even as close as they were.

Game 5 will be a different story. The extra day of rest is huge (HUGE) for the Spurs. This time, they will have the emotional/motivation advantage. Parker will be healthier and the rest of the team will know better what to expect. Lineup-wise, the Spurs will make their counter-adjustment by starting a smaller lineup (whether that is Diaw, Neal or Ginobili in place of Splitter). I'm confident Duncan will play better. There's no way Ginobili has a worse game. Parker should also be better. Could Miami's Big 3 be better than they were in Game 4? Doubtful.

You add it up and the Spurs will have their chance to go up 3-2. Maybe it doesn't happen but everything is aligning for a much better chance than they had in Game 4.

If the Spurs can get Game 5, then -- IMO -- the pressure shifts to the Heat. The Spurs get two chances to win a game in Miami. All things considered, that'd be a great place to be in.

NBA championships are fvcking hard to win, especially for a team that on paper fits no historical mold. Big picture, there's nothing to be upset about regarding where the Spurs find themselves right now. Sure, getting an early knockout punch in Game 2 or Game 4 would have been fantastic but the Spurs remain right there with a legit opportunity to go up 3-2.

Now is not the time to lose hope; the fun is just beginning.

Believe.

http://cdn.chud.com/a/a5/300x225px-LL-a514bf4b_clapping.gif

[J_Paco]

I'm totally at peace as well because of the level of opponent the Spurs are facing. Miami is like no other team they've ever faced in the Finals, so being 2-2 with them is an achievement within itself at this point. Yet, I know the guys in that locker room wouldn't be pleased with 2nd place. They've gotta turn up the intensity to 100 and leave all the court Sunday night.

Sid-note: The only things I found really discouraging about last night was Tiago Splitter's horrendous play (ala last year's WCF), Manu's seemingly complete ineffectiveness, the team's inability to outrebound Miami's smallball line-up and giving up way too many easy transition points.


Maybe we could study the tapes of how Indy was able to score in the paint? Seems to be a mystery for the Spurs.
Live and die by the 3 - I think we could do better against a Miami team that has such a big hole in the middle.

Splitter has underperformed all playoffs and hasn't really given Timmy much support. If he was even giving the team his modest regular season numbers (with crisp passing and great screens) this could be 3-1. Instead he's dogging it and playing like a total wimp. Needs to somehow find himself, start pump faking and give the team and Pop something.

[Legacy]

Man, this place is a MAD HOUSE. Once again, the series is tied 2-2, and... WTFever... doesn't matter to 'em. It's definitely time for an extended ST viaggio... I don't care if we win game 5 or not (well, of course I do, but ya get it). It is complete insanity up in here.

Thanks for a FINALLY positive post, BTW, timvp. :tu

I am so outta' here, lol. :toast

[Legacy]

Spurs in 6 was my original prediction, BTW. Sticking to it. :p:

Ciao! Ciao!

[phxspurfan]

Let us all rememeber we took 6 games to get by the Sonics with Jerome James (lol), the Suns with beasting Amare, the Nets in 03 (wtf how did that take that long) and the Warriors this year. We took 7 games to get past the CP3 Hornets, and Pistons in 05 and may take 7 here. And even that is no guarantee, seeing as how this year's Heat is way better than any of those clubs we faced before. I agree with OP, this is a good position to be in, considering we stole that first game. That was the huge game. We are very much still in the driver's seat and I trust in the Spurs' ability to make some adjustments and bounce back with the game 5 win.


Now OTOH, if they lose game 5, holy cow meltdown city.

[spurs10]

Thanks timvp! Post of the year! I wonder if we should play their game going small from the start? I could see Diaw instead of Tiago perhaps, but wonder about a really small lineup. For all the reasons you mentioned, Spurs fans should be feeling great going into game 5 of the Finals with a great chance to go up 3-2. This rest will be HUGE!!! :flag::ihit:flag:

[#1spursfanNvegas]

thank you for the very smart and objective statement sir. 1 game at home, 2 games away. The FiNALS is just starting at this point.

[allansy20]

Thanks for this Timvp. This was just what I needed so as not to feel too depressed and regain optimism! Go Spurs Go! We'll get game 5!!

[Horse]

We came out like it was still game 3. Then those fucking refs showed up, the bosh flop, bs fouls on Duncan. Nobody seemed to notice mike miller elbow kahwi right in the head before he blocked his shot. It changed the whole game and they lost their aggression, then Tony wasn't the same in the 2nd half. We can still do this!

[SouthernFried]

1 win in Miami, 2 wins in San Antonio, and 1 more win in Miami.

It's all going according to plan...as long as they win Sunday ;)

Thursday was a "must win" for Miami, and they played like it. If they lost, it was all over. They just wanted it more.

Sunday is a "must win" for San Antonio. Letsee what happens :toast

[JRHernandez88]

Why wouldn't you be? We're 2-2 against the reigning champs and best player on the planet. We blew them out once and already know we can win on their home floor. This is the NBA Finals people, this is not supposed to be easy. We're actually in a good position. Just have to take care of business tomorow and we're right where we need to be. Did you all really think we weren't going back to Miami? We just needed to steal 1 in Miami then get 2 @ home. Then it's money time, got to win on their home floor for the ring, what champs do. Got to beat the best to be best. I want the Heat @ full blast; at their best. http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/6501/goeshard.gif

[RD2191]

Why wouldn't you be? We're 2-2 against the reigning champs and best player on the planet. We blew them out once and already know we can win on their home floor. This is the NBA Finals people, this is not supposed to be easy. We're actually in a good position. Just have to take care of business tomorow and we're right where we need to be. Did you all really think we weren't going back to Miami? We just needed to steal 1 in Miami then get 2 @ home. Then it's money time, got to win on their home floor for the ring, what champs do. Got to beat the best to be best. I want the Heat @ full blast; at their best. http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/6501/goeshard.gif
:lmao The Heat at their best would assrape the Spurs by 30 every game.

[SpursOwn]

In

[JRHernandez88]

:lmao The Heat at their best would assrape the Spurs by 30 every game.
We're in the finals faggot, if you aint playing at your best now then when the fuck are you?

[soxxx]

1 win in Miami, 2 wins in San Antonio, and 1 more win in Miami.

It's all going according to plan...as long as they win Sunday ;)

Thursday was a "must win" for Miami, and they played like it. If they lost, it was all over. They just wanted it more.

Sunday is a "must win" for San Antonio. Letsee what happens :toast
This put me at more peace, that was the ideal plan going in. Split, win 2, Split.

Im sorry I cant see the Heat taking 2 of 3 on our home court.

[RD2191]

We're in the finals faggot, if you aint playing at your best now then when the fuck are you?

Do you honestly believe the Heat have been playing at their best these past 4 games? LOL

[JRHernandez88]

Do you honestly believe the Heat have been playing at their best these past 4 games? LOL
No shit their in The Finals, do you honestly believe their not? :lol

It ain't our fault their best player is mentally weak. If he finally wakes up like i want him 2 then it's going to be a classic series. Oh and by the way Spurs at their best blow out the heat by 30; faggot.

Fact.

[RD2191]

No shit their in The Finals, do you honestly believe their not? :lol

It ain't our fault their best player is mentally weak. If he finally wakes up like i want him 2 then it's going to be a classic series. Oh and by the way Spurs at their best blow out the heat by 30; faggot.

Fact.
LMFAO, IS THIS GUY SERIOUS RIGHT NOW? Lay off the crack, buddy.

[RD2191]

:lmao Seriously :lmao

[JRHernandez88]

What's not to be serious about? Did you not see game 3? We won by 36. Is it not LeBron being aggressive that is why their not at their best? Do you really believe LeBron, Wade, & Bosh decided to suck for the first 3 games of The Finals? What is out of reach here buddy?

[RD2191]

Dude, we hit a fukin record amount of 3s that game, did you not see how the Heat took away the 3 point shot in game 4?

[SpurPadre]

He got dis. Stop being a hater.

After getting in a decent night's sleep, I feel better about where the team stands at this point but not about Manu. Last night, I believed I was watching a shot player with nothing left in the tank but now I know better. He's not done, career-wise; the Heat are simply a bad match-up for him at this stage in his career. Are there things he can do to improve against them? Sure, maybe play better without the ball on offense but who's going to feed him the ball when TP is out? Therefore, he has to control the ball and initiate the offense when he's there with TP out to either find the open man or get his shot off. However, he's been overpassing because he's not getting any good looks from the Heat defenders. They're not falling for his head and pump fakes and their swarming pressure is psychologically affecting him to the point of making sloppy decisions with the ball even though he might have better options. In the past, he was match-up proof because when all else failed against long, fast, and athletic defenders, he had a quicker burst that would force his way to the lane and draw fouls or he was fast enough to make crisper passes when he was trapped with nowhere to go. In other words, he could keep up with whatever pace around him. But that doesn't look to be the case anymore. It happens to all players when they get to a certain age when some teams' defensive gameplan and/or personnel aren't conducive to their current game. I hope I'm wrong and Manu steps up from here on out in these Finals but after 4 games, I just don't see it in him. Maybe Pop figures something out strategically by Sunday that can make the most out of Manu's game in this matchup? It really pains me to be this pessimistic on the man, who as you can see by my avatar, I truly admire as a basketball player.

[JRHernandez88]

That's besides the fact, you said Heat at their best blow us out by 30. I'm saying Spurs ALREADY blew them out by 30 regardless of how we did it, we did it, it's been done. We can't help that we organized a fucking great team with great shooters that just go ahead and break all-time records in the finals and shit :rolleyes. Now let's see how true your claim is because supposedly they can beat our ass by 30 every game now that their "trying". :lol We got atleast the next 2 games to see buddy. :D












:td

[spurs10]

I would like more discussion, if anyone has any ideas, on whether we play small to adjust to them. I still like keeping them out of the lanes and am not convinced they outrebounded us by going small. Thoughts?

[spurraider21]

I'm not too broken up by this one. I also don't see it as a blown opportunity, either, considering the fact the Spurs didn't really beat themselves (like Game 1 of the '08 WCF or the '04 Semis or the '06 Semis). People will, of course, reference the turnovers, but that's what Miami does. It's simply not a matter of playing "smarter" and "taking care of the ball." That's their defensive bread-and-butter. Playing against them, you pretty much have to gameplan for the fact you're probably going to be forced into 15 turnovers and go from there.

Miami was at their best tonight (and the Spurs stayed right there with them for about 3 and 1/2 quarters), and when they are, they're pretty much unbeatable.

The encouraging thing to take away from this game is that it's doubtful Wade plays like that again. If he does, then, nothing you can do and you can sleep well as a fan knowing the Spurs lost to an all-time great team, which the Heat are when Wade plays like that.

i know you keep beating that point to a pulp (pun intended) but if you go back and watch the game, you can't tell me that several of the turnovers weren't forced and could have been prevented

[RD2191]

You're a dumbass jr. I never said the Heat weren't trying, I said the Heat at their best are pretty much unbeatable. Im sure everybody would agree with that. Does that mean Miami will play at their best again? Not sure, but I do know that Wade gained a shitload of confidence last night.

[JRHernandez88]

You're a dumbass jr. I never said the Heat weren't trying, I said the Heat at their best are pretty much unbeatable. Im sure everybody would agree with that. Does that mean Miami will play at their best again? Not sure, but I do know that Wade gained a shitload of confidence last night.

Ok, stand by your claim, lets make an account bet.

James and Wade both woke up and the heat are now "playing at their best" right? If we lose every game from here on out, while they are undeniably at their best, i'l stop posting. We don't even have to get blown out by 30 like you said, just lose.

If we win 1 game with them playing at "their best" and beat the unbeatable team, then you stop posting.

Deal?

[RD2191]

Deal.

[JRHernandez88]

:D

[shingo_318]

It's 2:2 and we sure have luxury to be at peace. In fact I am happy whatever the outcome is. Spurs are the champions, they will not be crowned only because Stern not allow this to happen. Fuck him.

[td4mvp21]

Also, every other time the Spurs were in the Finals, there was little doubt they were going to win. Maybe in Detroit but after Game 5 we all knew we had that. This one seems to teeter closer to the edge and is much more uncertain.


The uncertainty is very difficult to handle as a fan. And after the Spurs winning Games 1 & 3 (especially Game 3 in the fashion they did), how can we not get our hopes up?

[TD 21]

I'm not too broken up by this one. I also don't see it as a blown opportunity, either, considering the fact the Spurs didn't really beat themselves (like Game 1 of the '08 WCF or the '04 Semis or the '06 Semis). People will, of course, reference the turnovers, but that's what Miami does. It's simply not a matter of playing "smarter" and "taking care of the ball." That's their defensive bread-and-butter. Playing against them, you pretty much have to gameplan for the fact you're probably going to be forced into 15 turnovers and go from there.

Miami was at their best tonight (and the Spurs stayed right there with them for about 3 and 1/2 quarters), and when they are, they're pretty much unbeatable.

The encouraging thing to take away from this game is that it's doubtful Wade plays like that again. If he does, then, nothing you can do and you can sleep well as a fan knowing the Spurs lost to an all-time great team, which the Heat are when Wade plays like that.

If by that you mean, an efficient 32, then I agree, but if you mean a big game in general, then I don't. It's clear that, even in this diminished state, he still has it in him, it just takes every ounce of energy/will he has to summon it, which is why it's only there when they need it most. Despite the 2 days off, that doesn't describe game 5. But 6 and should it come to it, 7, he's definitely going off in at least 1.


I was never disheartened. Technically, it was a great opportunity to take a stranglehold, but realistically, I think damn near all of us knew that wasn't going to happen. I was and still am frustrated by Pop's rotation and Ginobili's lack of intensity/passion, though.

I'm sticking to my Spurs in six pick, but I must admit that I'm feeling nervous going into game 5, for 3 reasons. 1) Parker's hamstring, particularly in the 2nd half and my now lack of faith in Ginobili to step up. 2) The Heat playing small all game might permanently ramp up their offense to a level the Spurs can't match and/or slow down enough to give themselves a chance to match, 3) Law of averages: Green, in particular is due for an off stretch, let alone game. Plus, at some point one of these teams is bound to win/lose consecutive games and the Spurs haven't had a narrow loss since game 4 against the Warriors.

[cjw]

of course game 5 in the finals after being 2-2 is a dream come true.

this game will be forever cherrished in Spurs lore. win or lose

as I said, Spurs playing with house money. They already overachieved this season.

:tu :tu :tu :tu :tu


Exactly. And this run also shows it's not the Spurs' last hurrah if it's not meant to be this season. They're in a MUCH more flexible cap situation than any other contender so will be back next year either to try to win #5 or #6, whichever case it may be. Only OKC and Miami are in the same pantheon at the end of the day.

[therealtruth]

I would like more discussion, if anyone has any ideas, on whether we play small to adjust to them. I still like keeping them out of the lanes and am not convinced they outrebounded us by going small. Thoughts?

I think the Spurs have to stay big. Stick to the game plan and wall off the paint. Keep Lebron/Wade on the perimeter.

[therealtruth]

of course game 5 in the finals after being 2-2 is a dream come true.

this game will be forever cherrished in Spurs lore. win or lose

as I said, Spurs playing with house money. They already overachieved this season.

:tu :tu :tu :tu :tu

I know. They've already doubled the amount of Thunder's victories against the Heat in the Finals.

[rmt]

Miami going small causes problems. Tiago for all his softness on the offensive side improves the defense and Haslem doesn't stretch the floor as Miller does. Thank God it's taken Spo 3 games to figure that out. With Miller starting, the defense is stretched and the paint is more open for Lebron and Wade. At this point, IMO Pop should go with Diaw more - he's more capable of guarding Miller and getting TD the ball when he's fronted.

I'm not at peace. This whole playoff run has seemed like the pieces were falling into place and like it's destiny. Don't feel like that now - Lebron, Wade and Bosh have woken up - don't expect timid, gutless play from them anymore when the championship is within grasp and with TP's hamstring, things don't look good.

[DarrinS]

My football team hasn't gone to a Super Bowl since the year I was born (1969).

But this Sunday, Father's Day, I get to watch my basketball team play for the chance to up 3-2 in the NBA finals, with an opportunity to win their 5th championship in a 14 year span.

Life is good.

[unforeseen]

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b398/heat_fusion/jsmvf1U.gif (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/heat_fusion/media/jsmvf1U.gif.html)