2014 NBA Finals Game 4, Spurs at Heat

[baseline bum]

This is going to be the toughest game the Spurs have played since last year's Finals.

Spurs 102
Heat 98

[ducks]

spurs need 110

[Mugen]

Det nigga baseline tbh.

[dg7md]

:flag:

Someone post that Melissa pic that won the game in the game 3 thread.

[SpurPadre]

As long as it isn't Amused, tbh.

[spursparker9]

It can be the deciding game

[dg7md]

The Heat haven't played a game like this all playoff long... We've played many (Dallas game 7, OKC game 6). I think we're going to be ready. This could be as good as a closeout game if we come back home up 3-1.

[Boomersgold]

Wait, is this the actual game thread or a prediction thread?

I'm gonna' say Spurs win, 105-97

[Nathan89]

No pics?

[Prime Time]

I'd take a freaking 131-130 win, just WIN.

[timtonymanu]

:tu

[TE]

Oh fuck it. Lose we lose. Win we win. Mugen should've made this thread.

[Kool Bob Love]

:flag:

[baseline bum]

:flag:

Someone post that Melissa pic that won the game in the game 3 thread.

Fuck Melissa. Just get the win.

[baseline bum]

As long as it isn't Amused, tbh.

The Spurs owe me tbh. I used to go cheer fucking Alfrederick Hughes.

[ElNono]

baseline turning the corner, jacking up the circus 3, double-bounce, BANG

[TheGoldStandard]

At this very moment I have the Spurs winning, felt that way before this game started and have the same feeling. Spurs win 96 to 88 and Lebron goes for 22, Bosh will have 20 and Wade will have 15.

[Horry Hipcheck]

Miami almost never loses consecutive games, basically never in the playoffs, let alone get outplayed on consecutive nights. Game 4 will require similar effort from Kawhi and late game execution. Spurs either win by less than 5 or get destroyed.

[MeloHype]

Easy win

[baseline bum]

baseline turning the corner, jacking up the circus 3, double-bounce, BANG

no helmet also

[dg7md]

Miami almost never loses consecutive games, basically never in the playoffs, let alone get outplayed on consecutive nights. Game 4 will require similar effort from Kawhi and late game execution. Spurs either win by less than 5 or get destroyed.

Weren't they 8-0 at home until tonight?

The Heat haven't lost two straight playoff games for two years but they have to eventually... might as well make it game 4.

[mVp]

I don't want another 7 game series against these clowns, really, I DO NOT WANT IT.

Take this game, and seal the deal at home Spurs.

[heyheymymy]

:flag:

[slayermin]

Hope they do it. These last two years have aged me.

[SanDiegoSpursFan]

If Lebron has a bad game/doesn't completely dominate, I think the Spurs take this. He's shooting fucking 74% in the finals so far, he has to cool down. Hopefully Wade and Bosh cool off too.

[Mikeanaro]

Time to take what we deserve :flag:

[LoneStarState'sPride]

Spurs can't lose the series in game 4...but they damn sure can ice it by winning. This will be the hardest one to get.

Break their goddamn backs on Thursday, San Antonio.

[dg7md]

Let's do this again tbh...

http://i.imgur.com/3kegPsZ.jpg

[in2deep]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp0e_kwCYAAvoDF.jpg:large

[Amuseddaysleeper]

my nigga :tu

[Horry Hipcheck]

Weren't they 8-0 at home until tonight?

The Heat haven't lost two straight playoff games for two years but they have to eventually... might as well make it game 4.

Not saying it can't be done, but Miami hasn't lost consecutive playoff games in a while for a reason. They respond to adversity well, especially at home. I'd be completely shocked if the Spurs got on the plane to SA with back to back 10 point+ wins.

[pookenstein]

Let's do this again tbh...

http://i.imgur.com/3kegPsZ.jpg

:lol

[BanditHiro]

why isn't Mugen making the Game Thread?

[heyheymymy]

http://i.imgur.com/2P2gIfX.jpg

[heyheymymy]

https://cdn.boldernet.net/0/0/258/258659-450.jpg

[dg7md]

Encouraging stats, tbh...

http://i.imgur.com/NQtakCO.png

[Uriel]

This is going to be the toughest game the Spurs have played since last year's Finals.

Spurs 102
Heat 98
Disagree. Game 6 @ OKC with their backs against the wall and without Tony Parker may have been slightly tougher.

[Uriel]

Encouraging stats, tbh...

http://i.imgur.com/NQtakCO.png
The Spurs won Game 3 in the Finals last year too. Look how that turned out.

[Strategic]

Let's do this again tbh...

http://i.imgur.com/3kegPsZ.jpgSome of the people leaving, some of them going in. Must be a nice crack house?

[100%duncan]

Encouraging stats, tbh...

http://i.imgur.com/NQtakCO.png

Not really. Last year. :lol

[dg7md]

Not really. Last year. :lol

True, but we all know that we won last year... and it was the flukiest of fluke situations to lead to our loss. Besides, it shows that we're not likely to repeat last year based on our history. It's not everything of course, but it's a lot better than if we lost more series than won.

[baseline bum]

Bump

[BillMc]

Let's do this again tbh...

http://i.imgur.com/3kegPsZ.jpg

Never gets old! :lol

[Budkin]

The Spurs owe me tbh. I used to go cheer fucking Alfrederick Hughes.

God damn that is a badge of honor!

[mclinejr]

Spurs win with a buzzer beater. :flag:

[BillMc]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp0e_kwCYAAvoDF.jpg:large

Like it!:toast

[Mugen]

Man, if the Spurs steal this game............just keep it close tbh.

[cd98]

I see Miami bench giving something in game 4. They've been called out by media and teammates and coach.

[SouthernFried]

If the refs let Kawhi and Green defend Lebron and Wade...it will be a good game.

If they get quick fouls for defending them, it will not.

[EVAY]

All of the big three from each team are tired now, imo. You could see it last night for all of our big three and after the first quarter, all of the Heat's as well.

Keys to game 4:

Kawhi and Green have to play almost as well as they did last night and stay out of foul trouble.

Diaw and Mills have to have super games.

Pop has to keep short rotations in order to keep our guys fresh.

Diaw has to start again.

Refs have to protect our guys because the Heat will start flagrant fouling if they think they are about to go down 1-3.

I thought we would lose last night and have a chance to win game 4.

I will still be happy with a split coming out of this with HCA….but it would be soooo sweet to come home with HCA AND a 3-1 lead.

[TheGoldStandard]

I've said it in other threads... Spurs need to protect the 3 point line, run bosh off the 3 and Chalmers because they will get the ball in spades tomorrow night. Smart defense, no cheap fouls because they will be looking to get Chalmers and Bosh to the line to get a rhythm, it's the blue print the media has outlined for game 4. All the talk before Game 3 was Kawhi needs to step up and he did so look for them to allow both those jokers to get away with murder and get foul calls.

[DPG21920]

Greedy OP.

[TheGoldStandard]

I'm hoping Duncan has a monster game to closeout the series, he has one left in him in this series.

[Spur|n|Austin]

http://media.kens5.com/images/TMpic-5789-20130227-suns-spurs.JPG

[BillMc]

A little worried about Pop's suspension for Game 4. After all, he slugged Leonard several times. :lol Throw a punch and you're gone.

[Gervin44Silas13]

STATS DONT MEAN SHIT UNLESS YOU WIN THE DAYM THING!!!!!!

[Shastafarian]

Is anyone going to this game?

[-21-]

The Heat will probably come out of the gates going all out. I have a feeling they will try to get Bosh involved early on after disappearing in Game 3. Just have to weather the storm and keep this close. Go in for the kill in the 4th and come back home.

[Horse]

Veteran teams don't react to home crowd emotions like young teams, this could be a huge benefit to us like we saw last night. And we all know if it looks bad their crowd will literally leave. Just stay close the get tired in the 4th and we steal another.

[heyheymymy]

http://i.imgur.com/OHhY3Sp.gif?1

[myhc]

I'm hoping Duncan has a monster game to closeout the series, he has one left in him in this series.

THIS. Duncan has still got a 25/15 type game left in him. I'm hoping that's tomorrow. In Duncan I trust.

[timtonymanu]

Yeah, I'm expecting LeBron to come out firing and the Heat to go up early. The good thing is that the Spurs have done well responding to Heat runs. They just need to keep it close like Game 6 against OKC.

[Mr. Body]

None of the Big Three had much of game last night -- didn't have to. They're still due, each of them. I can see Ginobili going off.

[BatManu20]

They'll be fine. Lebron and Wade will come out extremely aggressive, attacking at will and posting up, trying to get to the FT line as much as possible and trying to get our guys in foul trouble. I expect a lot of FT's for miami this game, unfortunately.

[Mugen]

http://i.imgur.com/qBG5vOy.png

:lol

[rexb]

I didn't expect the Spurs to win last night with the way the Heat played the last 2 games. I actually went ahead and accepted Spurs will be down 1-2 and just happy not down 0-3 if not for Lebron's cramps.. Heat were just so scary, every shot and plays they run, i'm at the edge of my seat. I can't believe how many down screens, back screens they ran for their shooters and everytime Lebron has the ball. They are the aggressor to be honest. Actually, the Heat played a really good game and still lost, Spurs just played a lot lot better! I liked that the bench and supporting cast are contributing which is Spurs greatest advantage. I'm also glad I don't see a lot of Battier now and they no longer have Mike Miller. Those 2 i think are game changers.

If Spurs win Game 4, I'd be really surprised but really really happy! I'd like to see how the Heat respond being down 3-1. If it's 2-2... :(

[Dex]

baseline turning the corner, jacking up the circus 3, double-bounce, BANG

baseline making pay today, bringing home the bacon, center cut, thick sliced, extra greasy, ain't no one eatin' no Cheerios around this man this morning, no way, leggo' my Eggo, Aunt Jemima's gonna have to wait, nutritious part of a balanced breakfast, mama there goes that SPAM!

[Budkin]

baseline making pay today, bringing home the bacon, center cut, thick sliced, extra greasy, ain't no one eatin' no Cheerios around this man this morning, no way, leggo' my Eggo, Aunt Jemima's gonna have to wait, nutritious part of a balanced breakfast, mama there goes that SPAM!

:tu

[FromWayDowntown]

It became clear after the Game 3 officials were announced (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=234962&p=7405464&viewfull=1#post7405464) that Joey had Game 4 (along with Mike Callahan, almost certainly).

And, like clockwork, Joey has apparently been spotted in Miami today:

476817229183340544

[Spurish]

We got this. Spurs will go for the kill and put the Heat on the brink.

:flag:

[Mugen]

It became clear after the Game 3 officials were announced (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=234962&p=7405464&viewfull=1#post7405464) that Joey had Game 4 (along with Mike Callahan, almost certainly).

And, like clockwork, Joey has apparently been spotted in Miami today:

476817229183340544

:lol I'd have been fine w/ Joey in G4 if the Spurs were down 2-1. Now, I'm not so sure tbh.

[Nathan89]

The great thing about playing the Heat is Tim Duncan's mid-range shot is not needed in the offense.

[SpurPadre]

Has anyone noticed how no one is giving us any credit for the win last night? They've only been mentioning what the Heat didn't do, that Chalmers hasn't shown up, and even the Heat team has been saying they played their worst game of the season. Everybody is also making it a foregone conclusion that we will lose tomorrow and probably in a blowout. I guess they can keep underestimating us but I hope the team comes with a killer instinct instead of the "we did our job and got one" mentality that will set us up to get blown the fuck out. This team is too old for that shit, tbh.

[heyheymymy]

Has anyone noticed how no one is giving us any credit for the win last night? They've only been mentioning what the Heat didn't do, that Chalmers hasn't shown up, and even the Heat team has been saying they played their worst game of the season.

same as it ever was

[therealtruth]

Has anyone noticed how no one is giving us any credit for the win last night? They've only been mentioning what the Heat didn't do, that Chalmers hasn't shown up, and even the Heat team has been saying they played their worst game of the season. Everybody is also making it a foregone conclusion that we will lose tomorrow and probably in a blowout. I guess they can keep underestimating us but I hope the team comes with a killer instinct instead of the "we did our job and got one" mentality that will set us up to get blown the fuck out. This team is too old for that shit, tbh.

The NBA/media wants a close series. No surprise.

[therealtruth]

:lol I'd have been fine w/ Joey in G4 if the Spurs were down 2-1. Now, I'm not so sure tbh.

Is it time for the NBA to make sure the series remains close?

[313]

Easy win

[SouthernFried]

I'm going to be interested in what the referees do.

If Kawhi or Green have 3 fouls by mid-second quarter and have to be pulled again, my opinion of the NBA might need an adjustment.

[hooperflash]

Two more victories, step on the throat ...

https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-0/10435939_863890340292534_8729189019413930938_n.jpg

[dg7md]

If they can win a game 6 in OKC there's no reason why we can't win a game 4 in Miami tbh...

[MI21]

As mentioned, hopefully Green and Kawhi can stay out of foul trouble. I wouldn't be against them playing a bit less aggressive defensively at the start just to ensure there is no early foul issues.

[ElNono]

http://media.kens5.com/images/TMpic-5789-20130227-suns-spurs.JPG

[heyheymymy]

Kawheisenburg gonna cook that blue for the spurs tomorrow night!

http://i.imgur.com/9CwImZM.jpghttp://i.imgur.com/V7VIdTm.jpg

[T Park]

It became clear after the Game 3 officials were announced (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=234962&p=7405464&viewfull=1#post7405464) that Joey had Game 4 (along with Mike Callahan, almost certainly).

And, like clockwork, Joey has apparently been spotted in Miami today:

476817229183340544

best road ref you could ask for.

Play smart, dont complain to the refs. be aggressive, and Joey will reward you.

[emanueldavidginobili]

Miami almost never loses consecutive games, basically never in the playoffs, let alone get outplayed on consecutive nights. Game 4 will require similar effort from Kawhi and late game execution. Spurs either win by less than 5 or get destroyed.

[FromWayDowntown]

Joey Crawford
Mike Callahan
Tom Washington
Alt. John Goble

[xtremesteven33]

best road ref you could ask for.

Play smart, dont complain to the refs. be aggressive, and Joey will reward you.

True. Joey Crawfords hatred of the Spurs is exaggerated. Yea he kicked Timmy out one game but it wasnt a playoff game and thats Joey being Joey. Dude gets too dramatic at times but thats the way he is with everyone. He does tend to favor road teams though when they play tough smart basketball.

[AFBlue]

I see Miami bench giving something in game 4. They've been called out by media and teammates and coach.

Don't really see their bench stepping up, but Bosh doing so is a virtual lock.

[AFBlue]

I'm hoping for Timmy to have a bounce back game, but a lot of that will depend on how the game is officiated inside. In fact, officiating will have the biggest impact on this game. If Kawhi and Danny are allowed to lock in and not get called for touch fouls, this will be a very close game.

[AFBlue]

All of the big three from each team are tired now, imo. You could see it last night for all of our big three and after the first quarter, all of the Heat's as well.

Keys to game 4:

Kawhi and Green have to play almost as well as they did last night and stay out of foul trouble.

Diaw and Mills have to have super games.

Pop has to keep short rotations in order to keep our guys fresh.

Diaw has to start again.

Refs have to protect our guys because the Heat will start flagrant fouling if they think they are about to go down 1-3.

I thought we would lose last night and have a chance to win game 4.

I will still be happy with a split coming out of this with HCA….but it would be soooo sweet to come home with HCA AND a 3-1 lead.

Good take, agree on all.

[AFBlue]

Prediction: Spurs have single digit lead late and Heat comeback falls short...including a missed three by LeBron and some clutch free throws by the Spurs to seal it.

95-91, Spurs win!

[ersinert]

I want a buzzer beater win after decades. An up and under by Dundan if possible.

98-96 spurs

[ManuTastic]

At this point, it's worth doubling off of Chalmers all game; he's been flat awful.

[hitmantb]

Tight calls on both ends, Spurs win, GDP works best under this environment.

Loose calls "let them play", Miami physical defense has the edge over Spurs precision/finesse. LeBron gets away with murder on defense and can muscle his way to force foul calls.

That and Lebron fatigue meter is what I am looking for. 3rd game in 5th night after 38 and 40 minutes, Kwahi must take advantage and trade his own fatigue meter with LeBron's. LeBron's only weakness is because he is so versatile, he tries to do much and tires out because of his weight class.

[LoneStarState'sPride]

I just want a win tonight. Pretty or ugly, I don't care. By hook or by crook. Just fucking win. Put all this "narrative" talk to bed. Put all of this "it's just like last year" shit to rest. Take the Heat's best punch and throw it back in their faces. Break their fans' hearts and make them leave early again, and let's come back to the Alamo City on the brink of a title.

[said7]

My little twins are ready to GO!

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BpokxLIIcAAQYI-.jpg:large

[Uriel]

This is the most predictable loss of the season, tbh. :lol It would be a miracle if the Spurs don't get blown out.

But you never know.

[mudyez]

I'm pretty optimistic. 110:100 Spurs win

[Manu20]

One reason I have hope the Spurs might pull out a win tonight is the the SA Big 3 had a below average game on Game 3, so odds are they will bounce back and Miami's streak of not losing back to back games in the playoffs is getting recognition by the media....It feels right that it should be broken tonight! lol

[Dex]

This is the most predictable loss of the season, tbh. :lol It would be a miracle if the Spurs don't get blown out.

But you never know.

And yet the jumpers will still line the cliffs if the Spurs lose tonight.

[Russ]

I believe that Duncan will have a huge game --- 25-30 points and 10-15 rebounds.

But will it be enough against a desperate Miami team that always wins this type of game?

[Warlord23]

I see 2 possible outcomes today:
1. The Spurs get blown the fuck out early and we see a lot of garbage time with Ayres/Bonner/Beli and co.
2. The game stays a close affair (5 to 8 point margin) well into the 4th quarter - after that the team that makes fewer mistakes, has more stamina left in the tank and pulls out more clutch plays is the one that will win.

If the Spurs are able to hang around for 3 quarters, I hope Pop keeps Duncan and Manu out for the first 6 minutes of the 4th and brings them in on relatively fresh legs for the stretch run. Mills is averaging only 14 minutes per game; based on his recent play Pop can keep him out there a bit longer and have him push the tempo. The aim should be to try and tire out Miami's perimeter guys over the first 3 quarters.

[FromWayDowntown]

Joey, Callahan, and Washington are about as experienced a Finals crew as the league could reasonably put together for a game this early in the series. Joey will work his 49th Finals game tonight (for sake of comparison, the other 11 Finals officials this year have worked a cumulative total of 96 Finals games over the courses of their careers; if you take Danny Crawford out of that, the other 10 Finals officials have cumulatively worked 66 Finals games (or only 17 more than Joey has by himself)). Callahan has called at least one game in all but one Finals since 2003 and 15 Finals games total. Washington is working his 4th Finals since 2008 and is working the 4th Finals game of his career tonight.

Joey Crawford

Miami is 10-6 in the Big 3 era with Joey; they are 8-2 at home over that span; they are 3-2 in the Finals. The Heat are 2-0 in the 2014 Playoffs with Joey (won Game 5 vs. Brooklyn; won Game 2 at Indiana).

Spurs are 23-16 since 1990 with Joey; 8-12 on the road; 5-3 in the Finals. The Spurs are 2-1 in the 2014 Playoffs with Joey (won Game 1 vs. Dallas; won Game 2 vs. Portland; lost Game 4 at OKC).

Callahan

Miami is 14-2 in the Big 3 era with Callahan; they are 9-0 at home over that span; they are 4-1 in the Finals. The Heat are 3-0 in the 2014 Playoffs with Callahan (won Game 1 vs. Brooklyn; won Game 2 at Indiana; won Game 6 vs. Indiana).

Spurs are 17-12 all-time with Callahan; 4-7 on the road; 3-3 in the Finals. The Spurs are 1-1 in the 2014 Playoffs with Callahan (won Game 5 vs. Dallas; lost Game 4 at OKC).

Washington

Miami is 5-4 in the Big 3 era with Washington; they are 2-2 at home over that span; they are 1-0 in the Finals. The Heat are 1-1 in the 2014 Playoffs with Washington (won Game 4 at Charlotte; lost Game 5 at Indiana).

Spurs are 11-9 all-time with Washington; 2-8 on the road. He's never called a Spurs Finals game. The Spurs are 1-2 in the 2014 Playoffs with Washington (lost Game 3 at Dallas; won Game 1 vs. Portland; lost Game 3 at OKC).

[Horry Hipcheck]

Spurs either scrape together a narrow victory or get run out of the building. We won't be seeing Game 3 again, and if we do, the series is over.

[Mr. Body]

Refs see to it that Green and Leonard sit a lot in the first half. They've seen the numbers.

Heat come roaring out, expending a lot of energy trying to answer with a blowout.

But in the second half, they're starting to drag. The Spurs are able to push back. Ginobili comes up big.

[Budkin]

The Spurs are more focused than I think I've ever seen. I feel very good about their chances of taking a second straight in Miami and wrapping this up at home.

[Crookshanks]

I fully expect the Spurs to lose tonight - I think the officiating is going to be atrocious. That being said - if the Spurs can manage to pull out a win tonight it will be awesome! But I'm going into it with the mindset that the Heat will win - that way I won't get too upset.

[DarrinS]

I'm curious to see how many minutes Lebron will play tonight.

[T Park]

Joey Crawford
Mike Callahan
Tom Washington
Alt. John Goble

Tom Washington? Ugh......

[boutons_deux]

Spurs gonna have to be extremely aggressive, lots of fortitude, necks bowed like a bull, NEVER GIVE AN INCH!

[Warlord23]

Home teams are 9-2 in games reffed by Tom Washington in the 2014 playoffs, and he tends to blow the whistle more often than Crawford or Callahan

[ElNono]

:pop: "Make some shots"

[Budkin]

The problem for the Heat is that they look gassed. They've been playing in the Finals for 4 straight years. The Spurs have much more energy and players to expend. By the end of the game the Heat will be worn down.

[Mugen]

Bud, if the Spurs win tonight, I'll fly to SA and buy you a churro tbh.

[mclinejr]

Bud, if the Spurs win tonight, I'll fly to SA and buy you a churro tbh.

I'll take you up on that!

[Budkin]

Bud, if the Spurs win tonight, I'll fly to SA and buy you a churro tbh.

LOL, I'll have to drive down from Austin but I'm down!

[DarrinS]

The problem for the Heat is that they look gassed. They've been playing in the Finals for 4 straight years. The Spurs have much more energy and players to expend. By the end of the game the Heat will be worn down.

This

[Mugen]

If the Spurs win tonight, I'll willingly drink any cleaning liquid of T Park's choosing tbh.

[SpurPadre]

As I've mentioned in another thread, tonight will go one of two ways: 1) we get blown the fuck out or 2) we build a big lead at the half only to choke most of it away again to barely hold on to a win with the Heat missing a shot at the buzzer to either tie or win it. Hopefully, we can pull this one off. It'll be the hardest task this team has had tbh.

[Dex]

If the Spurs win tonight, I'll willingly drink any cleaning liquid of T Park's choosing tbh.

How the hell do you tag someone with a space in their name?

[Horse]

A win would be sweet but keep it close at all cost the heat and especilly lebron will be running on fumes.

[SpurPadre]

I fully expect Battier to get some extended run tonight and we all know how he can be a Spur killer.

[TheGoldStandard]

As long as they don't over help and leave bosh and Chalmers wide open we got this.

[DatBoyGood]

Honestly have no clue what to expect tonight. This team should be up 3-0 right now with Lebron going off in game 2. They cannot let Allen and Bosh get going early

[sook]

we got this.

[Mr. Body]

I fully expect Battier to get some extended run tonight and we all know how he can be a Spur killer.

Agree. The Heat need to make some changes and Battier's one of the key parts Spoelstra has.

[TampaDude]

Heart says Spurs.

Head says Heat.

[Mugen]

Yeah, I'm fine with Battier taking away some of Lewis' minutes tbh.

[SpurPadre]

Yeah, I'm fine with Battier taking away some of Lewis' minutes tbh.

He'll take away Chalmers and Norris' minutes and that's not a good thing for us tbh.

[colargol]

The Spurs are more focused than I think I've ever seen. I feel very good about their chances of taking a second straight in Miami and wrapping this up at home.

man..... it's so true :flag:
Miami have no chance :lobt2:

[colargol]

This is the most predictable loss of the season, tbh. :lol It would be a miracle if the Spurs don't get blown out.


Man....it's so true:depressed
Spurs have no chance:bang

[Mugen]

He'll take away Chalmers and Norris' minutes and that's not a good thing for us tbh.

Not really. Battier has looked done all season and can't shoot or defend anymore. Sure there's a chance he might knock down some shots again like Game 7 but Chalmers/Cole are very capable of doing the same.

[ElNono]

http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/article/media_slots/photos/000/635/014/enhanced-buzz-25384-1354477549-4_original.jpg?1354554659

[Budkin]

Heart says Spurs.

Head says Heat.

Pretty much how I'm feeling but I'd like my head to be wrong. I don't want to wind up in position for another Game 5 gut wrencher.

[21209]

Maintain the ball movement and the focus to keep them on their heels.

Win or lose, it won't be easy.

[rexb]

I see Spurs Heat tied 2-2 later tonight. No way NBA and refs will let the Heat to be down 3-1 and Game 5 happening at Spurs homecourt. Expect Leonard and Green in early foul troubles as Lebron, Dwade, Bosh and everyone else drive hard to the basket, get foul calls and shoot tons of free throws. I'm just expecting the worst so I won't be too bummed out tonight :(

[BatManu20]

Battier and Haslem will likely get more minutes tonight in place of James Jones and Birdman. Wouldn't be surprised if Haslem goes off from midrange.

[Harry Callahan]

I think Wade has a material knee issue right now - he can not keep up running with green from the looks of GM 3.

I have a feeling the spurs will take control of this series tonight. Four years of 100 plus games for Miami and running down the sas ball movement will result in another spurs win.

I just believe our team sees the goal right in front of them and will execute well. It's time to get this done.

[marinoman]

Im curious, if we're down by 1 with 10 seconds left and the heat foul us somehow, who do you want at the line?
I think i want belinelli first, manu 2nd, green third

Lets pretend belinelli is in the game

[Budkin]

I fully expect Battier to get some extended run tonight and we all know how he can be a Spur killer.

What is up with that dude? Has he even played?

[myhc]

I think we get blitzed right out of the gate. Bosh will go off tonight. We just have to stay within striking distance and weather the storm. If were down 20 early in the 4th, I think Pop pulls the plug.

[hitmantb]

None of us expected Spurs to win game 6 in OKC, where we haven't won for two years.

None of us expected Spurs to blow out Heat on their own floor, which we did.

Heat streak of no consecutive losses is bound to end at some point. Make it tonight!

[Mikeanaro]

Spurs are the better team, its all on refs shoulders if those fuckers wants to help the Cheat it will be harder but not impossible to win.

[SpurPadre]

What is up with that dude? Has he even played?

He got a few seconds in on Tuesday. It's weird because he got a lot of run during the first three rounds of the playoffs and even though he's past his prime, his defense is still an asset.

[Nathan89]

:flag:

[Nathan89]

I expect Leonard to outplay Lebron again tbh.

[BatManu20]

I'm surprised at the amount of confidence on ST that we're going to win this game tbh. I think people are forgetting that miami never loses two in a row in the PO's and plays their best ball when their backs are against the wall.. let's not get ahead of ourselves. Not saying the Spurs can't win, but it's going to be incredibly difficult, and I wouldn't be surprised if we're down by 15+ at any point in the game.

I think miami wins big, we rest our starters the 2nd half of the 4th qtr, and come back to SA for a pivotal Game 5.

[TXstbobcat]

:flag: Let's fucking take this one and bring it back home to finish them off!!!!

[peacemaker885]

:flag: 3 - 1

[Knoxxx]

I'm surprised at the amount of confidence on ST that we're going to win this game tbh. I think people are forgetting that miami never loses two in a row in the PO's and plays their best ball when their backs are against the wall.. let's not get ahead of ourselves. Not saying the Spurs can't win, but it's going to be incredibly difficult, and I wouldn't be surprised if we're down by 15+ at any point in the game.I think miami wins big, we rest our starters the 2nd half of the 4th qtr, and come back to SA for a pivotal Game 5.how is thinking the Spurs will win the next game getting ahead of ourselves

[ElNono]

:flag:

[Dex]

http://www.nba.com/spurs/sites/spurs/files/imagecache/image_gallery_default/151006410_Nuggets_Spurs_EvansCE142.jpg

Riding the heels of a narrow Game 2 defeat and stinging from the loss of a home-court advantage that took 82 games to secure and two basketball-minutes to disappear, the Spurs came into Miami looking to right the ship and recapture what had been lost. They did so in resounding fashion, blistering the Heat with a historic first half that featured a 19-for-21 shooting start by the silver and black. Kawhi Leonard finally escaped foul trouble long enough to make his 2014 NBA Finals appearance, and he made his impact early en route to a career-high 29 points on 13 shots. San Antonio's shooting clip of 25 for 33 (75.8%) set the mark for the best shooting half in Finals history. The Spurs swooped in and unleashed hellfire on the court of AmericanAirlines Arena, and the result was a 21-point lead at halftime. Miami would surge predictably in the third on strong efforts from James and Wade, once whittling the advantage down as low as seven. Then Marco Belinelli did exactly what he is being paid to do by stepping up and hitting a big three from the wing which seemed to stem the tide. The Spurs were able to regroup going forward, and the result left Miami Heat fans streaming out of the doors at the 3-minute mark again.

The pressure lies squarely on the Heat's shoulders now. The Spurs have already accomplished their goal of a split, and some would say that they are playing with house money for this game. It can't be denied that Miami is facing the bigger test of fortitude, knowing a loss tonight puts them in a historically deep 1-3 hole to go along with their boarding passes to San Antonio. I expect the Heat to come out with desperation after getting run out of their home arena two nights ago, and San Antonio will be facing a tall task just to put themselves in a position to win this game. Whatever happens tonight, the Spurs have the comfort of knowing they can fly home with home court advantage tucked in their pocket.

I understand this sentiment, but having this mindset would be a mistake. Miami is a very dangerous team, and the gap in complexion in this series between 3-1 and 2-2 is a ring too golden not to chase. The Spurs must get greedy. They must get nasty. They must get ready to rip this thing away from the two-time defending champions and say "not this year".

The Spurs have toppled the statistics several times on this playoff run. They slayed Serge-zilla. They tasted victory in Oklahoma. They beat the Curse of Tony Brothers. Now they must be prepared to topple the Heat's "wins-after-losses" streak which has largely been forged against the likes of Charlotte, Brooklyn, and Indiana. If the Heat think that this statistical anomaly guarantees them a win, they are in for a surprise tonight.

FTH.

5.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp8xR0RIcAAdBZX.jpg:large

[mclinejr]

Does anyone else have a little bit of an unsettling feeling about tonight? The Heat have yet to go off on us.

[BatManu20]

Does anyone else have a little bit of an unsettling feeling about tonight? The Heat have yet to go off on us.

Well miami is expected to win tonight anyways so it's not that unsettling.

[BatManu20]

477226754646372352

[BatManu20]

I fully expect Kawhi and Green to be in foul trouble by the 2nd quarter tbh. Maybe Diaw too. Lebron and Wade are going to be extra aggressive tonight. I expect Chalmers to snap out his slump as well.

[BatManu20]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp92HcyCIAAZ4hP.jpg

[Mugen]

Y'all niggas need to chill tbh.

[BatManu20]

https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t1.0-9/10358728_10152085718606981_6413346025291936527_n.j pg

[Sigz]

I think we will get beat down hard.

[SnakeBoy]

Damn! Nice job Dex!

[ElNono]

:flag:

[BatManu20]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp98uFMCEAEXaVY.jpg

[BatManu20]

Olé!

477237764497235968

[Mugen]

Make some shots, see what happens tbh.

:flag:

[Kidd K]

Due to the refs for tonight's game, I can't honestly pick the Spurs to win tonight. If the NBA wasn't prone to fixing games to make things interesting, I would take the Spurs to win tonight by about 5-6 points. Due to the NBA's track record of fixing, I'm going to say Heat by about 8-11 points. Some combination of Green, Leonard, or Duncan will be in early foul trouble. Spurs will be in the penalty early any time the game is close or going their way. Heat will get away with fouls.

I can't see the NBA allowing us to win tonight, especially when you look at Miami's record with tonight's refs vs ours with them. Heat are undefeated with them this postseason and we're .500. Heat's LeBron era record with those refs is some shit like 17-2 (just saw these stats in NBA Forum)

[ace3g]

Duncan going with Deadpool

http://img.bleacherreport.net/img/images/photos/002/934/557/hi-res-60128ff940f388ea2a8f1941451a225a_crop_north.jpg?w= 1220&h=820&q=75

[BatManu20]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp9-hvSCMAEJDd-.jpg

[Strange Love]

Surely these interviews are fake. Amirite?

No one can be this clueless.

[Prime Time]

Going home up 3-1 would be nothing short of a miracle, I'm sure most of us are pretty satisfied with just a split.

[SpurPadre]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp9-hvSCMAEJDd-.jpg

I wish he practiced like this last year in that building, tbh.

[SpurPadre]

Going home up 3-1 would be nothing short of a miracle, I'm sure most of us are pretty satisfied with just a split.

No, fuck that. You play to win the game.

[BillMc]

Spurs 99- Heat 98

[DarrinS]

Getting some bad weather. Praying that cable doesn't go out.

[Strategic]

:flag::flag::flag: 4 the 5th :lobt2:!!!!!!!

[Harry Callahan]

Spurs need to go for a semi kill shot tonight. Miami might give up a little bit at 3-1.

I want this series to go the right way very very badly because the final series is so hard to get to unless you get bye to the finals like the heat did this year. All the coasting may catch up with them in the next week or so.

[BatManu20]

477242626303721473

[DarrinS]

I'm sure the transition from playing the Pacers to the Spurs was a bit extreme for them.

[spurs10]

Go Spurs!

[timtonymanu]

Just got to keep the game close. Miami will be a different monster today, especially LeBron. I like the Spurs' chances if they can make this competitive.

[ilovethespurs]

This is the game. Spurs take control of this series tonight.

Get the win and push Miami to the brink.

It ends in Game 5 at home.

:flag:

[baseline bum]

Getting some bad weather. Praying that cable doesn't go out.

Yeah, looks like the entire north half of the city is about to get fucking hammered in the next hour and a half or so.

[Ibleedslvrnblk]

Spurs 99- Heat 98

Ok who is the blonde covering her boobs at the bottom? She is stunning.....

[ThePop]

Which Miami scrub is going to go off tonight?

[BillMc]

Ok who is the blonde covering her boobs at the bottom? She is stunning.....

Michelle Pieroway

[HI-FI]

:flag:

Getting bad weather as well. Not sure how much of the game I'll get to watch. If the Spurs win, it's all good.

[BatManu20]

Same starters for both teams, per Pounding the Rock.

[BatManu20]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp-DqEmCEAApGT3.jpg

[SupremeGuy]

:flag:

[BatManu20]

Which Miami scrub is going to go off tonight?

Likely Chalmers or Battier. Haslem should get more PT as well and can shoot the midrange really well.

[TheGoldStandard]

Gotta stop Bosh tonight..

[neboat]

Let's win this tonight spurs!

[timtonymanu]

Same starters for both teams, per Pounding the Rock.

I thought for sure, they would replace Chalmers with Cole.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp-GLLlCEAA-cNz.jpg:large

http://img.bleacherreport.net/img/images/photos/002/934/596/105c9e378c7e9174cb65de921605e57d_crop_north.png?w= 1220&h=820&q=75

[timtonymanu]

Once it's half hour before tipoff, it always feels like an eternity waiting for the game to start.

[BatManu20]

:lol Timmy outdoing even himself with that wardbrobe

[BatManu20]

477251057240657920

[SupremeGuy]

We just need to come out and play like we have for the first 3 games and we should be fine, tbh. Stupid missed FTs away from being up 3 - 0. Let's just finish the job.

Go motherfucking Spurs Go!

[SupremeGuy]

lol i miss doing pregame lay up drills

[BatManu20]

I thought for sure, they would replace Chalmers with Cole.

I think Chalmers plays better today, but if he doesn't early I expect Cole to get a lot more minutes.

[Mugen]

:lol Tim's pants/belt, ridiculous tbh. Distracting enough to deflect attention from Green's Austin Powers/Joke outfit

[ElNono]

Shard has to come back down to earth in one of these games, right?

[crc21209]

1. Just move, move, move, move, move the ball and find the open man!
2. Just make your open shots, including free throws.
3. Just defend without "fouling," and don't let players get wide open.
4. Just rebound the ball.
5. Just play with aggressiveness on both sides of the ball. Attack the paint on offense, play smart on defense.
6. Just weather the storm, match their energy, stay calm with the basketball, and play Spurs basketball.

7. JUST WIN! :flag:

[DarrinS]

:lol Timmy outdoing even himself with that wardbrobe

I like how Kawhi rolls in with the gray sweatshirt, not giving a fuck about style -- perfect Spur.

[DarrinS]

Shard has to come back down to earth in one of these games, right?

With his form, it's amazing it even goes in.

[Arcadian]

Although the Spurs are in the same position they were last year, up 2-1 in the Finals, this year is a much more favorable situation. In 2013, they had to play games 4-7 in the format Home-Home-Road-Road, which put a lot of pressure on them to win both games 4 and 5 (which they did not). In 2014, games 4-7 are in the format Road-Home-Road-Home, which is much better. Now they can afford to lose game 4 and still have 2 potential home games left to play.

[vander]

only way spurs win this is by shooting 60% or better from 3

Kawhi's lucky rolls and ref bailouts aren't happening
Green's steals aren't happening
Chalmers will stop playing for the Spurs
etc.

[Spurs and Mavs fan]

I'm afraid Miami will race out to an early 15-point lead.

[RD2191]

:flag:I'm out if we go down 10, tbh.

[DarrinS]

Just keep it close.

[doobs]

I don't like the Duncan and Green outfits. Dudes are getting too cute, like a bunch of image conscious Miami faggots tbh

[DarrinS]

only way spurs win this is by shooting 60% or better from 3



I disagree

[TheGoldStandard]

Miami's first play will be a Bosh 3 or a Chalmers layup

[ElNono]

lol kiwi 3 fouls in 2 mins :lmao

[Spurs9]

Why does sugar k chew his tounge?

[spurastic]

Some Fans already bailing out. LOLS

[DarrinS]

I don't like the Duncan and Green outfits. Dudes are getting too cute, like a bunch of image conscious Miami faggots tbh

Fyi...Duncan always dresses like he shops at a big and tall resale store

[loveforthegame]

FTH.

Play smart and together. Get the win!

:flag:

[DarrinS]

I'm going into stealth mode. Will check back after the game

[RD2191]

Her head to body ratio is ridiculous.

[$pursDynasty]

if we win this game we should get the lil girl to sing the anthem at game 5, for good luck :lol

[Slydragon]

shit shes cussing my TV just beep her

[TheGoldStandard]

She looks like she has giant hands too

[TheGoldStandard]

She must be hitting the HGH too

[BatManu20]

477254320107180033

[ImDaNuts]

How old is this anthem singer? Id smash when legal

[myhc]

Lebron didn't cut his fingernails

[Texas_Ranger]

How old is this anthem singer? Id smash when legal

13

[Arcadian]

This bitch glissando's into every single pitch that she sings, and it's fucking annoying.

[myhc]

How old is this anthem singer? Id smash when legal

Permaban? kori? LJ? Which one of the dudes caught on To catch a predator were you?

[Baam]

Is it me or we don't get see the player get introduced individually this year? I loved that, really added to the atmosphere, probably needed more time for commercials...

[007nites]

How old is this anthem singer? Id smash when legal

12

[~O~]

Her head to body ratio is ridiculous.

Lol. Come on...

[tholdren]

How old is this anthem singer? Id smash when legal
Is Russel Westbrook out of the closet yet?

[$pursDynasty]

hey last time I saw that girl sing the Spurs started a game at an all time level, she is alright with me, I hope she keeps it up.

[ImDaNuts]

13

Lmao no way. Would of guessed 16 tbh.

[SupremeGuy]

:flag:I'm out if we go down 10, tbh.:lol

[Dex]

Fuck The Heat!

Engage protocol Diaw 2.0!!!

[ImDaNuts]

Is Russel Westbrook out of the closet yet?

Probably not.

[PingPong]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bp-GLLlCEAA-cNz.jpg:large





Green with the Westbrook fashion sense.




477251057240657920

They need to put Splitter to dunk 50 times a day with Baynes and Ayres guarding the rim

[SupremeGuy]

lol kiwi and green 3 fouls in 2 mins :lmaofify

[$pursDynasty]

if we can withstand their initial punch they might just fold like a cheap table

[TheGoldStandard]

Kawhi will get Thrown out for asking why it's a foul

[myhc]

Foul on Kawhi already? Game hasn't started yet

[ImDaNuts]

LBJ over/under 9.5 FTAs

[Baam]

Damn the ref paranoia is at an all time high, chill people...

[RD2191]

Fuck, Heat gonna come out strong.

[100%duncan]

Let's do this. Just weather the Heat storms.

[Kyl3]

LBJ over/under 9.5 FTAs

Under