Spurs Brazil
03-13-2007, 03:19 PM
http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/basketball/nba/spurs/stories/MYSA031307.webSpursMailbag.en.9304794.html
Spurs Mailbag: Duncan finds bank shot
Web Posted: 03/13/2007 12:44 AM CDT
Johnny Ludden
Express-News Staff Writer
Judging from the past few weeks, Tim Duncan appears to have relocated an old friend.
advertisement
His bank shot.
By the end of last season, Duncan was rarely using his signature off-the-glass shot. He admitted to having lost confidence with his perimeter shot in general and spent the summer trying to regain his stroke.
Over the past month, Duncan has looked more and more steady shooting from midrange instead of always trying to drive inside. He opened the Spurs’ March 3 victory in Houston by making his first five shots: a 20-footer, a 14-foot bank, a running hook, a driving layup and a turnaround.
“Over the last two, three weeks he’s definitely been looking to take his shot, just be a post man and not worrying about swinging the ball and moving the ball,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “If he’s open, he’s going ahead and shooting in rhythm. That’s really good for us.”
Spurs Mailbag
Got a question about the Spurs? Use the form below and fire away!
*Your name
*Your e-mail
Your hometown
*Your question
*Required
Duncan’s teammates have long said they can tell if he’s in rhythm if he doesn’t hesitate to shoot his bank from the left wing.
“It gives us confidence and gives him confidence him, too,” Manu Ginobili said. “They have to close out on him and that’s where the court opens up and he go to his right, to his hook, or kicks it. When he starts making those shots, it opens up the whole game for him.”
Duncan has shot 58.8 percent during the Spurs’ 12-game winning streak. More than a few of those attempts have been off the glass.
“When it goes in, the confidence is there and it’s easier to take those shots,” Duncan said. “It’s going in these days and I’m going to continue to do it until it stops going in.”
Now, on to the mail…
Since George Strait is from San Antonio and has season tickets, why isn't his music played during the SPURS games? –Judy, Bulverde
Uh, because it’s country. Something tells me today’s NBA player isn’t going to be too fired up to take the court to “Amarillo by Morning.”
Look, I know this is going to sound stereotypical, but I’ll say it anyway: You country-music fans get the AT&T Center for nearly a month during the rodeo. During that time, you can do with it as you please. Schedule George Strait for 14-straight days for all I care.
Heck, we even let you dump a mountain of manure in the media parking lot and not clean it up for two weeks. (And, yes, I know that if there’s ever an appropriate place for a mountain of manure, it’s wherever the media gathers en masse).
I’ll support bringing back the “Cotton-Eyed Joe” on a limited basis just for tradition’s sake. And I have perfectly sane friends who love country music, my misguided sister being among them.
But, trust me, George Strait wafting through the arena’s speakers isn’t a home-court advantage. Unless, of course, the other team just walks off in frustration.
When are they going to get rid of the “Y’all ready for this?” music. The crowd needs something new to liven them up.
The Spurs have had that as their intro music for over 10 years. Can we get something different? –Jeff, Schertz
Now this is someone who gets it. Does anyone even know where “Y’all ready for this?” came from? And who picked it as the Spurs’ theme music?
I’m guessing it was the same people who decided a pastel-colored logo was appropriate for an NBA team.
The Spurs have played so well during the past decade that maybe the team doesn’t want to change out of superstition. I don’t know. But it is time for something new. (And, by the way, in answer to the never-ending question the song asks: No, I’m not ready for THIS, whatever THIS is. I’ve never been ready and I suspect Jeff and I aren’t alone).
Here’s my opinion on intro music for a sporting event: You can never go wrong with Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” or any AC/DC song. Never. You can play AC/DC at a middle-school badminton tournament (if there is such a thing) and everybody will be jacked.
It’s all about knowing your audience. And, like it or not, San Antonio is still the Heavy Metal/’80s Rock Capital of the World.
This is why Kip Winger stands a better-than-even chance of someday being elected mayor here. And why when I drive down San Pedro, see a sign at Tiffany Billiards that reads, “Saturday: Rik Emmett, ex-Triumph” I can go home and rest comfortably knowing that the show very likely will sell out.
I happen to like this about our city. I grew up here listening to Lisle & Hahn and nothing would please me more than to have them hired to oversee the Spurs’ in-game music.
I already consider it an injustice that Nazareth’s “Hair of the Dog” isn’t permanently cued up for Manu. Every time Manu goes on one of his 3-pointer-layup-3-pointer-dunk runs, they should cut in with that song: “NOW, you’re messing with a…”
I guarantee the place would explode. Game-freakin’-over, that’s all I’m saying.
If you can’t tell by now, my lone goal before I get off this beat is to see Tim take the floor to “Hells Bells.” I swore they used to sometimes do this at the Alamodome, but it was so long ago I can’t remember.
I can tell you one thing: AC/DC beats George Strait.
What has happened to Terry Porter? He announced a couple of games and then disappeared. –Janice Smith, Kerrville
He got a real job. He’s now an assistant coach on Flip Saunders’ staff in Detroit.
What did Tony Parker mean about the article of Vaughn (as) mentor? Tony Parker said Beno is more talented then Vaughn is? We all have different meanings to the quote. –JP, San Antonio
He meant what he said: That Beno’s probably more talented than Jacque.
“More talented” doesn’t mean “better player.” There’s an old sports cliché that could apply here: “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.”
How come Ginobili isn’t playing like he used to? (He would dunk all the time and make all these cool plays.) –Eric Estrada, San Antonio
Something tells me that if Eric were at Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game, he would have complained about the four free throws Wilt missed.
Can you (the Spurs) please win or try to win the championship this year? Because I’m tired of hearing a lot of the people from San Antonio saying y’all suck! Please. Thank you. –Eric Estrada, San Antonio
This from the same person concerned that Manu isn’t dunking enough...
What is the Spurs’ record when Parker scores over 25 points and what is the Spurs’ record when Manu scores over 25 points? I'll bet the stats would be interesting. –Stan
The Spurs are 5-3 when Parker scores more than 25 points, 4-3 when Ginobili scores more than 25 and 6-3 when Duncan scores more than 25. So I’m not sure that says much.
In nearly every Spurs game I find myself yelling at TP to PASS THE BALL, yet before I can get all the words out of my mouth he defies the laws of physics and manages to get the ball through the trees and into the hoop. ”Nice shot, Tony!!”
So, I struggle finding my position on this debate. So, can you please share your thoughts about the balance – or lack thereof – that a scoring point guard should possess, in particular what you’d like to see from Tony? –Russell, Boise, Idaho
I included this question from the 347 I received this week accusing Tony of being too selfish (I will now forever term this the Tony Dilemma) because it’s the most rational. Notice the inclusion of the terms “scoring point guard” and “balance.”
One of Tony’s greatest strengths is his ability to score, so the Spurs need to utilize that. BUT, there is a balance that must be struck between his roles as scorer and distributor and that balance is going to change from night to night depending on who’s on the floor, who has the hot hand and how the opposing team is defending.
On some nights, Tony struggles with this. There were a few possessions in last week’s fourth quarter against Sacramento where me and probably everybody else watching was thinking, “Would you please just give the damn ball to Manu and get out of the way?”
But on Saturday against New Jersey, I also thought Tony’s aggressiveness in the second quarter helped the Spurs take control.
It’s well-documented where I stand on the Manu As Starter vs. Manu As Reserve issue. (If nothing else, having Manu come off the bench deprives us being able to see his steal-the-opening-tip-and-score play about seven times a season and that’s a bummer).
But I will say this: With the way rotation is set up now, Manu comes into the game at about the same time Tony and Tim are going to the bench for their first rest. This allows Manu the opportunity to become the primary scorer on the floor and perhaps settle into a rhythm quicker.
It’s funny, I was talking with a player the other day about Manu, and he thought Manu’s decision-making has been his greatest area of improvement this season. He didn’t think Manu was forcing nearly as many shots as he has in the past.
(Of course, I’ve always found it interesting that sometimes the only difference between a “forced shot” and a “great shot” is whether the ball goes through the rim).
Tony still has room to grow in this department. Maybe he’ll get better. Maybe he won’t.
But I would be hesitant about putting him on the first bus out of town, as many of you are suggesting. You might have a different opinion if the Spurs are the team having to guard him.
Why doesn't the NBA switch to the format of giving two assists, if deserved, on a goal? Hockey does this for a reason. It recognizes that sometimes the first assist is the pass that is the most important part of setting up a goal. –Tom, San Antonio
This is a great suggestion for the reasons I listed last week. But it would also screw up the NBA’s record books. How many more assists would Magic, Oscar, Stockton and Kidd have if they played with these stats?
It’s already disappointing that Bill Russell doesn’t appear on the blocked-shots charts because the NBA didn’t recognize it as an official stat until the 1973-74 season.
I can't believe how desperate Spurs fan sound!
I'm not sure how to tell you this. You might want to sit down. OK, ready, David Robinson is not walking through that door, and that is OK!
We have won 11 in a row, we are the second-best team in the world! It's not June yet and Timmy and Manu are playing the best they ever have!
We are OK and I think we can still win this thing. I only get depressed when I think of the starting lineup for the 2013 season. –Ray, Farmington, N.M.
I wouldn’t be too concerned. Bruce will be only 42 in 2013.
Actually back in January I wrote to Buck Harvey's mailbag about trading Tony Parker for several young players who could help.
I told him some teams are suckers for players with rings and we could get someone very good for him. I told him Parker does not help the Spurs in the postseason as he always fades and does not distribute the ball.
He took it personal and ridiculed my opinion. Good to see I'm not the only one who sees Parker's flaws. –Eddie, Orange County, Calif.
It’s also good to see I’m not the only one ridiculing opinions.
How can I get season tickets to the Spurs? Is there a certain time of the year or season that they go on sale? –Misty Escobar, Port Lavaca
I’ve always assumed the Spurs will gladly take your money any time of the year, but maybe not. I suggest contacting the team directly at (210) 444-5050.
How can I get a Spurs’ No. 15 (Matt Bonner) shirt? –Jim Bonner, San Antonio
I can’t tell you how I disappointed I was to learn that Jim isn’t Matt’s dad. That honor belongs to Dave, who, from what I’ve heard, has already become quite popular at a couple of the local coffee shops around town.
Your best bet is to call the Spurs’ fan store at (210) 224-8557. If there’s a way to get a Bonner jersey, they’ll know how.
I’ve never understood why you can’t just walk into the AT&T Center and buy a jersey of any Spurs’ player. From the number of “Free Jackie Butler” emails I’ve received this season, I guarantee No. 45 would sell out in minutes.
Is Beno available for dating? How about Bonner? Will these guys be ready for the playoffs? –JH, Frisco
To answer your last question: Yes. Beno & Bonner’s Escort Services suspends operations from April to the end of June.
Do you think the Spurs need to be more emotional on the court to give the home fans more energy? –Big Moe, Bronx, N.Y.
Sometimes it works the other way. If the fans will show a little more emotion maybe the players will have more energy.
I don't know if you can answer this, but I have a question concerning the way the Spurs play. Why do they continually keep going to the Tim Duncan/four-guard rotation?
I don't like it one bit because they give too much rebounding and to me the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. What is your take? –Albert, Eagle Pass
I think it all depends on the opponent and how Francisco is playing. For example, I thought Pop’s decision to go small against Portland was a big reason why they won the game. It allowed him to get Manu, Fin, Beno and Jacque on the floor together >– all of whom played key roles in the team’s comeback.
If Francisco (or Horry, Fab or Bonner) is playing well, Pop will probably stay big. But if Francisco gets in foul trouble and none of the other bigs are contributing much (or able to keep pace with the opposing team’s small lineup), Pop won’t hesitate to match down.
I’m not as opposed to small ball as other people, particularly when Brent and Fin are shooting well. Sometimes it pays to get as many of your most-talented players on the court as possible, regardless of how tall they are. Plus, it also can help spread the floor for Tim.
That said, the Spurs’ defensive system is predicated on having two shot blockers. It’s up to Francisco to prove he deserves to be one of them.
I know that the Spurs are just worried about what they’re doing, but do they believe they can or do they care about catching the Phoenix Suns? –Jamie Williams, San Antonio
Catching the Suns won’t be easy, but it’s possible. The closing schedule seems to favor the Spurs.
But I also think they’re more concerned about holding off Utah for the No. 3 seed.
Why don’t we rest Tony Parker until playoffs? Why not cut down on Tim Duncan’s minutes until the playoffs? –Marquel, Round Rock
Why not first wait until the Spurs actually make the playoffs?
(EDITOR’S NOTE: The following questions are a special edition of the Mailbag titled “The Lost Files.” These were supposed to run on Feb. 12 before my laptop crashed. Our tech expert kindly retrieved them for me last week just about the same time the Spurs were reviving their season. Coincidence? I think not. I’ve decided to rerun them with one qualifier: All these questions were submitted – and answered – the week before the team’s current winning streak began. That’s what makes them all the more entertaining.)
How long before we let go of some of these fossils (including our deadwood backup PGs) and bring in someone who can draw iron? –Ken, San Antonio
I don’t know what team you’ve been watching, but if there’s one thing the Spurs haven’t had trouble doing this season, it’s drawing iron.
How long do you think Pop will keep Finley in the rotation?
I was as big a fan of his as anyone when he first came in, and he came up huge in the playoffs last year against the Mavs, but enough is enough. This guy detracts so much from the team when he's in the game and Pop keeps trying to work the square peg into the round hole.
I understand giving the guy a chance to shoot his way out of his slump, but if Finley isn't putting up points he's not providing anything else when he plays.
If they're going to actually start to jell on this road trip, they have to bench this guy. What say you? –Manuel
I say the Spurs would have started their rodeo trip 0-1 if Pop had followed your advice.
My Question is that if you Coach Pop that if wont trade those two Guy's but Like Brent Barry and Beno Udrih. But but my bother and that he is a Family's Doctor and that my question is Matt Bonner and I know that he is Hurt. And maybe that we can get somebody to play but with the team. And that if you trade Matt Bonner for Cory Maggette and this is a Good trade but for the team but for this year please and this is your Diehard Spurs fan. –Richard, San Antonio
My head hurts.
What happened to Van Exel? –Priscilla, Eagle Pass
The Spurs asked themselves that very same question about, oh, 15 minutes into last season.
I have been a Tim Duncan fan since his days at Wake Forest and I think it is remarkable that he has accomplished as much as he has given that he's often had to drag a bunch of lead-footed, one-dimensional players (Parker and Ginobili excluded, Avery Johnson included) to team success at both Wake Forest and in the NBA.
But reality is reality. He is not getting any younger and his skills are declining.
This guy is getting owned by players who couldn't even stay on the same court with him three seasons ago. He'll be 31 next season; Ginobili will be 30, and I don't care how young people keep saying Parker is, he is not going to get any better as a point guard and he's not going to get any younger.
Maybe the Spurs should trade off its best players and rebuild, ala the Jazz. Now granted Stockton and Hornacek retired, but the Jazz let Malone go to the Lakers. It freed up salary cap room to attract excellent free agents and the losing records gave Utah high picks to get quality players out of the draft.
In 1999, Duncan was 23 and San Antonio had four seasons to rebuild the Spurs into a champion. But with Duncan at 30, do the Spurs still have three or four seasons to become a contender again? Currently, the Spurs have no way of making this team better. They have nothing to trade, besides their big three; they have no cap space; low draft picks or no picks at all.
You think Chicago wouldn't give up the lottery pick they are getting from the Knicks for Duncan? Sooner or later, SA is going to have to rebuild.
Robinson retired and Duncan will, too. Get the process started now while Duncan, Ginobili and Parker might still have chances at championships with other teams. –Bonnie Foust, Boston
No, I don’t think it’s time to trade Duncan. He turned the Spurs into a championship team and put San Antonio on the national sports map. Without him, the franchise would be in Anaheim or Kansas City, leaving me to spend my weekends at the Alamodome covering AFL2 games.
In my book, that entitles Duncan a spot on the Spurs’ roster as long as he wants one. If he wants to hobble onto the court with a walker at age 85, I’m totally cool with it.
Here’s another reason to keep Duncan: He’s still pretty damn good. He’s not as dominant as he was three years ago, but then neither am I.
Besides, you wouldn’t want to trade for Chicago’s pick until you know where it’s going to fall in the draft and just who exactly is going to be in the draft.
No matter what happens this season, I still think the Spurs’ Big Three have another solid two years left in them – provided they’re surrounded by a good supporting cast. As for the future, Duncan, Ginobili and Parker are the only three players with contracts on the books after next season. The Spurs likely will bring over Ian Mahinmi and add another young player (or two or three) in this summer’s draft, but they still should have a good amount of cap room after next season.
And as someone who lives in Boston, I assume you have heard of a team called the Celtics. I’m sure they’ll be eager to explain to you the advantages/disadvantages that go along with rebuilding.
Is Popovich considering a trade or what? The Spurs desperately need young legs, especially at the forward position/backup point guard position.
,b>They will not advance in the playoffs with the current roster that they have. They struggle to score at times and perhaps a trade for Clipper Corey Maggette would help. They need more athleticism. –Marlon Stepteau, Granada Hills, Calif.
The Spurs already have young legs at the backup point guard position. The concern, of course, is they belong to Beno Udrih.
Is there anyway you can email me the score after each game? –Gina, Riverside, Calif.
No. I assume if you have enough time to check your email after each game, you also have enough time to check our Web site or NBA.com or ESPN.com for the score.
Has Micheal Finley made more than 30 points? –Julio Vidaurri, San Antonio
In a game? Or this season total?
Ask the coaches to show the team “Facing The Giants.” Please. –Billye, Kingsville
I think the Spurs’ viewing time would be better spent on the Tom Izzo: Dominating Rebounding & Man-to-Man Defensive Drills video than on an inspirational football movie.
I’m behind on my movie watching, so I didn’t even know what “Facing the Giants” was until I looked it up on the internet. Here’s what one reviewer had to say:
If the majority of middle America is as stiflingly simple-minded as this movie portrays, it goes far to explain the havoc this nation has wreaked on the world.
Inept acting, simplistic characters, a trivial script and a nauseatingly trite storyline only begin to describe the mediocrity which rules this entire project.
Sounds good. The Spurs might as start planning the River Walk parade now.
Is Coach Pop going to just stand pat with his present players? At best the Spurs’ play is mediocre. The Spurs will be lucky if they make it past the first round in the playoffs.
I know Spurs fans have become spoiled with the success of their three NBA titles since ’99. To make a big trade either Parker or Gino would have to be offered up.
I'd stand pat at this point take what we get and then make some trades. Spurs may jell and get hot after the Rodeo marathon road trip. Some of the older star role players will be gone. I think Bowen will get to stay if he wants. –John H., San Antonio
Pop said he’s not trading his “top 10, 11, 12 players.” Wait. . .he just it changed it to his “top six, seven, eight, nine players.”
Not quite sure what that means, but if I’m Eric Williams or Jackie Butler, I’m renting instead of buying.
Since the SPURS do not know how to man up, why don't we bring Rodman back for rebounding and, sign Scola up right now? At least Manu and Fab don't mind going to the basket. If Bruce can’t defend, then trade him along with Barry and Eric Williams (or Beno).
We are in Texas. It is time for the SPURS to “cowboy up.” –Cheryl, San Antonio
1. Scola is in the middle of his own season in Spain, so he isn’t going to sign with the Spurs “right now.”
2. I have written the phrase “younger and more athletic” approximately 2,347 times this season in reference to the Spurs. Not once was it followed by the word “Rodman.”
3. While it is indeed true the Spurs reside in Texas, they also are in the NBA. If you want to see someone “cowboy up,” go to the rodeo.
Why are the Spurs holding on to Michael Finley and Robert Horry? They are doing nothing for us. We would be better off signing a bunch of high schoolers.
What are those guys’ problems? We need to trade them now. We will be hurt this season. I’m a coach myself. Take it from me. –Tyrone, Orangeburg, S.C.
Thanks for clarifying that you’re a coach. I’ll personally recommend to the Spurs that they take your advice for all future personnel decisions.
What do you think if the Spurs were to go after former Longhorn PJ Tucker? –Sonny, San Antonio
I think the Spurs would be better off going after current Longhorn Kevin Durant.
Can't we do what Lakers have done with using their alumni resources? I don't know why David Robinson is not hired as a personal coach. –Mark, Los Angeles
David appears to have no interest in coaching anyone but his three sons.
How do all of you people that write in call your self “loyal” and “true” Spurs fans, yet you rip the team and the decisions that they have made.
“True” fans stick with the team in good seasons and bad, and we haven't had a “bad” season in a long time. Shy of the Lakers, show me a team that has had the potential -- and three times did -- to win a championship for the last 10 years. As Spurs fans we are spoiled because they have done so well.
People who write in to this page sound like we have a team that isn't going to make the playoffs. The Mavs and the Suns are the only teams with more wins.
We need to stop with the Josh Howard whining as well. The draft is a gamble. Yes, we lost out on him and Barbosa, but look at the steals we got with Manu and Parker. All championship teams need time to rebuild.
We will have to make changes to stay competitive but we have a great team that plays better with Elson not injured and even if we don't make any changes, the Mavs and the Suns don't want to face us come playoff time. If you are a true Spurs’ fan, start acting like it.
Also, please stop with the why can’t we trade Udrih or Barry for. . .fill in a superstar of your choice here. This isn't NBA Live. You can't force a trade.
If we could do that we would just go ahead and trade Butler for Bosh, or maybe Wade, or how about KG. Maybe Denver would give us Melo just as an act of charity or good faith. Maybe we should look into trading some of you so called “true” fans. –Curt Cox, Dayton, Ohio
This is what I hate about email. I have no idea whether this letter really came from Dayton, Ohio, or 1 Spurs Lane.
Gosh! I hate the so-called “Spurs fans” but actually the Spurs detractors. They're not helping the team.
The geniuses. The people who loved our coach when we were winning. The fans that loved Rob whose big shots killed the Pistons in the Finals. The fans who loved Tony for being a scoring machine, the fans who loved Fin for making threes last season. What the (blank) happened to them?
I am a loyal fan! You hate the Spurs team when they're down and you forgot how the team made you happy when they bagged the crown. Why hate those people who were behind those victories?
(THIS IS NOT FOR YOU MR. WRITER. THIS IS FOR MY FELLOW “SPURS FANS.” SPURS: I HAVE FAITH IN YOU GUYS.) –Mark, Manila
Mr. Writer appreciates being spared from your wrath.
I can’t understand why Manu and Tony don’t see that playing through the summer nonstop for the last three or four years is hurting their team.
Manu looks like he is 40 years old. He plays well in spurts even two to three games, but fades like he did last night against Houston. Even the injuries I believe are attributed to the extended seasons.
“Tony, Manu, don't be so selfish, give it up for the team.” –Efrain Gonzales, San Antonio
I believe Manu gave up the entire right side of his face for the team the other day against the Lakers, so I’m not about to start questioning his dedication. The same goes for Tony, who rarely misses a game despite being cracked to the floor a half-dozen times a night.
If NBA teams don’t want their guys to play in international competition, they shouldn’t draft international players. It’s that simple.
Many of these guys have played in their international programs their entire lives. Telling Manu he shouldn’t play in the Olympics or the World Championships isn’t fair to either him or his country.
I will give you this much: International players need to be more selective about which tournaments they participate in. It doesn’t make much sense for Tony to run his legs off in a qualifying tournament for the European Championships.
Remember, Manu had his worst season after taking the summer of 2005 off.
Why doesn’t Popovich yell at the games when you (Spurs) do a mistake? –Krystal, Laredo
I assume you haven’t seen a game in 10 years.
Spurs Mailbag: Duncan finds bank shot
Web Posted: 03/13/2007 12:44 AM CDT
Johnny Ludden
Express-News Staff Writer
Judging from the past few weeks, Tim Duncan appears to have relocated an old friend.
advertisement
His bank shot.
By the end of last season, Duncan was rarely using his signature off-the-glass shot. He admitted to having lost confidence with his perimeter shot in general and spent the summer trying to regain his stroke.
Over the past month, Duncan has looked more and more steady shooting from midrange instead of always trying to drive inside. He opened the Spurs’ March 3 victory in Houston by making his first five shots: a 20-footer, a 14-foot bank, a running hook, a driving layup and a turnaround.
“Over the last two, three weeks he’s definitely been looking to take his shot, just be a post man and not worrying about swinging the ball and moving the ball,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “If he’s open, he’s going ahead and shooting in rhythm. That’s really good for us.”
Spurs Mailbag
Got a question about the Spurs? Use the form below and fire away!
*Your name
*Your e-mail
Your hometown
*Your question
*Required
Duncan’s teammates have long said they can tell if he’s in rhythm if he doesn’t hesitate to shoot his bank from the left wing.
“It gives us confidence and gives him confidence him, too,” Manu Ginobili said. “They have to close out on him and that’s where the court opens up and he go to his right, to his hook, or kicks it. When he starts making those shots, it opens up the whole game for him.”
Duncan has shot 58.8 percent during the Spurs’ 12-game winning streak. More than a few of those attempts have been off the glass.
“When it goes in, the confidence is there and it’s easier to take those shots,” Duncan said. “It’s going in these days and I’m going to continue to do it until it stops going in.”
Now, on to the mail…
Since George Strait is from San Antonio and has season tickets, why isn't his music played during the SPURS games? –Judy, Bulverde
Uh, because it’s country. Something tells me today’s NBA player isn’t going to be too fired up to take the court to “Amarillo by Morning.”
Look, I know this is going to sound stereotypical, but I’ll say it anyway: You country-music fans get the AT&T Center for nearly a month during the rodeo. During that time, you can do with it as you please. Schedule George Strait for 14-straight days for all I care.
Heck, we even let you dump a mountain of manure in the media parking lot and not clean it up for two weeks. (And, yes, I know that if there’s ever an appropriate place for a mountain of manure, it’s wherever the media gathers en masse).
I’ll support bringing back the “Cotton-Eyed Joe” on a limited basis just for tradition’s sake. And I have perfectly sane friends who love country music, my misguided sister being among them.
But, trust me, George Strait wafting through the arena’s speakers isn’t a home-court advantage. Unless, of course, the other team just walks off in frustration.
When are they going to get rid of the “Y’all ready for this?” music. The crowd needs something new to liven them up.
The Spurs have had that as their intro music for over 10 years. Can we get something different? –Jeff, Schertz
Now this is someone who gets it. Does anyone even know where “Y’all ready for this?” came from? And who picked it as the Spurs’ theme music?
I’m guessing it was the same people who decided a pastel-colored logo was appropriate for an NBA team.
The Spurs have played so well during the past decade that maybe the team doesn’t want to change out of superstition. I don’t know. But it is time for something new. (And, by the way, in answer to the never-ending question the song asks: No, I’m not ready for THIS, whatever THIS is. I’ve never been ready and I suspect Jeff and I aren’t alone).
Here’s my opinion on intro music for a sporting event: You can never go wrong with Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” or any AC/DC song. Never. You can play AC/DC at a middle-school badminton tournament (if there is such a thing) and everybody will be jacked.
It’s all about knowing your audience. And, like it or not, San Antonio is still the Heavy Metal/’80s Rock Capital of the World.
This is why Kip Winger stands a better-than-even chance of someday being elected mayor here. And why when I drive down San Pedro, see a sign at Tiffany Billiards that reads, “Saturday: Rik Emmett, ex-Triumph” I can go home and rest comfortably knowing that the show very likely will sell out.
I happen to like this about our city. I grew up here listening to Lisle & Hahn and nothing would please me more than to have them hired to oversee the Spurs’ in-game music.
I already consider it an injustice that Nazareth’s “Hair of the Dog” isn’t permanently cued up for Manu. Every time Manu goes on one of his 3-pointer-layup-3-pointer-dunk runs, they should cut in with that song: “NOW, you’re messing with a…”
I guarantee the place would explode. Game-freakin’-over, that’s all I’m saying.
If you can’t tell by now, my lone goal before I get off this beat is to see Tim take the floor to “Hells Bells.” I swore they used to sometimes do this at the Alamodome, but it was so long ago I can’t remember.
I can tell you one thing: AC/DC beats George Strait.
What has happened to Terry Porter? He announced a couple of games and then disappeared. –Janice Smith, Kerrville
He got a real job. He’s now an assistant coach on Flip Saunders’ staff in Detroit.
What did Tony Parker mean about the article of Vaughn (as) mentor? Tony Parker said Beno is more talented then Vaughn is? We all have different meanings to the quote. –JP, San Antonio
He meant what he said: That Beno’s probably more talented than Jacque.
“More talented” doesn’t mean “better player.” There’s an old sports cliché that could apply here: “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.”
How come Ginobili isn’t playing like he used to? (He would dunk all the time and make all these cool plays.) –Eric Estrada, San Antonio
Something tells me that if Eric were at Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point game, he would have complained about the four free throws Wilt missed.
Can you (the Spurs) please win or try to win the championship this year? Because I’m tired of hearing a lot of the people from San Antonio saying y’all suck! Please. Thank you. –Eric Estrada, San Antonio
This from the same person concerned that Manu isn’t dunking enough...
What is the Spurs’ record when Parker scores over 25 points and what is the Spurs’ record when Manu scores over 25 points? I'll bet the stats would be interesting. –Stan
The Spurs are 5-3 when Parker scores more than 25 points, 4-3 when Ginobili scores more than 25 and 6-3 when Duncan scores more than 25. So I’m not sure that says much.
In nearly every Spurs game I find myself yelling at TP to PASS THE BALL, yet before I can get all the words out of my mouth he defies the laws of physics and manages to get the ball through the trees and into the hoop. ”Nice shot, Tony!!”
So, I struggle finding my position on this debate. So, can you please share your thoughts about the balance – or lack thereof – that a scoring point guard should possess, in particular what you’d like to see from Tony? –Russell, Boise, Idaho
I included this question from the 347 I received this week accusing Tony of being too selfish (I will now forever term this the Tony Dilemma) because it’s the most rational. Notice the inclusion of the terms “scoring point guard” and “balance.”
One of Tony’s greatest strengths is his ability to score, so the Spurs need to utilize that. BUT, there is a balance that must be struck between his roles as scorer and distributor and that balance is going to change from night to night depending on who’s on the floor, who has the hot hand and how the opposing team is defending.
On some nights, Tony struggles with this. There were a few possessions in last week’s fourth quarter against Sacramento where me and probably everybody else watching was thinking, “Would you please just give the damn ball to Manu and get out of the way?”
But on Saturday against New Jersey, I also thought Tony’s aggressiveness in the second quarter helped the Spurs take control.
It’s well-documented where I stand on the Manu As Starter vs. Manu As Reserve issue. (If nothing else, having Manu come off the bench deprives us being able to see his steal-the-opening-tip-and-score play about seven times a season and that’s a bummer).
But I will say this: With the way rotation is set up now, Manu comes into the game at about the same time Tony and Tim are going to the bench for their first rest. This allows Manu the opportunity to become the primary scorer on the floor and perhaps settle into a rhythm quicker.
It’s funny, I was talking with a player the other day about Manu, and he thought Manu’s decision-making has been his greatest area of improvement this season. He didn’t think Manu was forcing nearly as many shots as he has in the past.
(Of course, I’ve always found it interesting that sometimes the only difference between a “forced shot” and a “great shot” is whether the ball goes through the rim).
Tony still has room to grow in this department. Maybe he’ll get better. Maybe he won’t.
But I would be hesitant about putting him on the first bus out of town, as many of you are suggesting. You might have a different opinion if the Spurs are the team having to guard him.
Why doesn't the NBA switch to the format of giving two assists, if deserved, on a goal? Hockey does this for a reason. It recognizes that sometimes the first assist is the pass that is the most important part of setting up a goal. –Tom, San Antonio
This is a great suggestion for the reasons I listed last week. But it would also screw up the NBA’s record books. How many more assists would Magic, Oscar, Stockton and Kidd have if they played with these stats?
It’s already disappointing that Bill Russell doesn’t appear on the blocked-shots charts because the NBA didn’t recognize it as an official stat until the 1973-74 season.
I can't believe how desperate Spurs fan sound!
I'm not sure how to tell you this. You might want to sit down. OK, ready, David Robinson is not walking through that door, and that is OK!
We have won 11 in a row, we are the second-best team in the world! It's not June yet and Timmy and Manu are playing the best they ever have!
We are OK and I think we can still win this thing. I only get depressed when I think of the starting lineup for the 2013 season. –Ray, Farmington, N.M.
I wouldn’t be too concerned. Bruce will be only 42 in 2013.
Actually back in January I wrote to Buck Harvey's mailbag about trading Tony Parker for several young players who could help.
I told him some teams are suckers for players with rings and we could get someone very good for him. I told him Parker does not help the Spurs in the postseason as he always fades and does not distribute the ball.
He took it personal and ridiculed my opinion. Good to see I'm not the only one who sees Parker's flaws. –Eddie, Orange County, Calif.
It’s also good to see I’m not the only one ridiculing opinions.
How can I get season tickets to the Spurs? Is there a certain time of the year or season that they go on sale? –Misty Escobar, Port Lavaca
I’ve always assumed the Spurs will gladly take your money any time of the year, but maybe not. I suggest contacting the team directly at (210) 444-5050.
How can I get a Spurs’ No. 15 (Matt Bonner) shirt? –Jim Bonner, San Antonio
I can’t tell you how I disappointed I was to learn that Jim isn’t Matt’s dad. That honor belongs to Dave, who, from what I’ve heard, has already become quite popular at a couple of the local coffee shops around town.
Your best bet is to call the Spurs’ fan store at (210) 224-8557. If there’s a way to get a Bonner jersey, they’ll know how.
I’ve never understood why you can’t just walk into the AT&T Center and buy a jersey of any Spurs’ player. From the number of “Free Jackie Butler” emails I’ve received this season, I guarantee No. 45 would sell out in minutes.
Is Beno available for dating? How about Bonner? Will these guys be ready for the playoffs? –JH, Frisco
To answer your last question: Yes. Beno & Bonner’s Escort Services suspends operations from April to the end of June.
Do you think the Spurs need to be more emotional on the court to give the home fans more energy? –Big Moe, Bronx, N.Y.
Sometimes it works the other way. If the fans will show a little more emotion maybe the players will have more energy.
I don't know if you can answer this, but I have a question concerning the way the Spurs play. Why do they continually keep going to the Tim Duncan/four-guard rotation?
I don't like it one bit because they give too much rebounding and to me the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. What is your take? –Albert, Eagle Pass
I think it all depends on the opponent and how Francisco is playing. For example, I thought Pop’s decision to go small against Portland was a big reason why they won the game. It allowed him to get Manu, Fin, Beno and Jacque on the floor together >– all of whom played key roles in the team’s comeback.
If Francisco (or Horry, Fab or Bonner) is playing well, Pop will probably stay big. But if Francisco gets in foul trouble and none of the other bigs are contributing much (or able to keep pace with the opposing team’s small lineup), Pop won’t hesitate to match down.
I’m not as opposed to small ball as other people, particularly when Brent and Fin are shooting well. Sometimes it pays to get as many of your most-talented players on the court as possible, regardless of how tall they are. Plus, it also can help spread the floor for Tim.
That said, the Spurs’ defensive system is predicated on having two shot blockers. It’s up to Francisco to prove he deserves to be one of them.
I know that the Spurs are just worried about what they’re doing, but do they believe they can or do they care about catching the Phoenix Suns? –Jamie Williams, San Antonio
Catching the Suns won’t be easy, but it’s possible. The closing schedule seems to favor the Spurs.
But I also think they’re more concerned about holding off Utah for the No. 3 seed.
Why don’t we rest Tony Parker until playoffs? Why not cut down on Tim Duncan’s minutes until the playoffs? –Marquel, Round Rock
Why not first wait until the Spurs actually make the playoffs?
(EDITOR’S NOTE: The following questions are a special edition of the Mailbag titled “The Lost Files.” These were supposed to run on Feb. 12 before my laptop crashed. Our tech expert kindly retrieved them for me last week just about the same time the Spurs were reviving their season. Coincidence? I think not. I’ve decided to rerun them with one qualifier: All these questions were submitted – and answered – the week before the team’s current winning streak began. That’s what makes them all the more entertaining.)
How long before we let go of some of these fossils (including our deadwood backup PGs) and bring in someone who can draw iron? –Ken, San Antonio
I don’t know what team you’ve been watching, but if there’s one thing the Spurs haven’t had trouble doing this season, it’s drawing iron.
How long do you think Pop will keep Finley in the rotation?
I was as big a fan of his as anyone when he first came in, and he came up huge in the playoffs last year against the Mavs, but enough is enough. This guy detracts so much from the team when he's in the game and Pop keeps trying to work the square peg into the round hole.
I understand giving the guy a chance to shoot his way out of his slump, but if Finley isn't putting up points he's not providing anything else when he plays.
If they're going to actually start to jell on this road trip, they have to bench this guy. What say you? –Manuel
I say the Spurs would have started their rodeo trip 0-1 if Pop had followed your advice.
My Question is that if you Coach Pop that if wont trade those two Guy's but Like Brent Barry and Beno Udrih. But but my bother and that he is a Family's Doctor and that my question is Matt Bonner and I know that he is Hurt. And maybe that we can get somebody to play but with the team. And that if you trade Matt Bonner for Cory Maggette and this is a Good trade but for the team but for this year please and this is your Diehard Spurs fan. –Richard, San Antonio
My head hurts.
What happened to Van Exel? –Priscilla, Eagle Pass
The Spurs asked themselves that very same question about, oh, 15 minutes into last season.
I have been a Tim Duncan fan since his days at Wake Forest and I think it is remarkable that he has accomplished as much as he has given that he's often had to drag a bunch of lead-footed, one-dimensional players (Parker and Ginobili excluded, Avery Johnson included) to team success at both Wake Forest and in the NBA.
But reality is reality. He is not getting any younger and his skills are declining.
This guy is getting owned by players who couldn't even stay on the same court with him three seasons ago. He'll be 31 next season; Ginobili will be 30, and I don't care how young people keep saying Parker is, he is not going to get any better as a point guard and he's not going to get any younger.
Maybe the Spurs should trade off its best players and rebuild, ala the Jazz. Now granted Stockton and Hornacek retired, but the Jazz let Malone go to the Lakers. It freed up salary cap room to attract excellent free agents and the losing records gave Utah high picks to get quality players out of the draft.
In 1999, Duncan was 23 and San Antonio had four seasons to rebuild the Spurs into a champion. But with Duncan at 30, do the Spurs still have three or four seasons to become a contender again? Currently, the Spurs have no way of making this team better. They have nothing to trade, besides their big three; they have no cap space; low draft picks or no picks at all.
You think Chicago wouldn't give up the lottery pick they are getting from the Knicks for Duncan? Sooner or later, SA is going to have to rebuild.
Robinson retired and Duncan will, too. Get the process started now while Duncan, Ginobili and Parker might still have chances at championships with other teams. –Bonnie Foust, Boston
No, I don’t think it’s time to trade Duncan. He turned the Spurs into a championship team and put San Antonio on the national sports map. Without him, the franchise would be in Anaheim or Kansas City, leaving me to spend my weekends at the Alamodome covering AFL2 games.
In my book, that entitles Duncan a spot on the Spurs’ roster as long as he wants one. If he wants to hobble onto the court with a walker at age 85, I’m totally cool with it.
Here’s another reason to keep Duncan: He’s still pretty damn good. He’s not as dominant as he was three years ago, but then neither am I.
Besides, you wouldn’t want to trade for Chicago’s pick until you know where it’s going to fall in the draft and just who exactly is going to be in the draft.
No matter what happens this season, I still think the Spurs’ Big Three have another solid two years left in them – provided they’re surrounded by a good supporting cast. As for the future, Duncan, Ginobili and Parker are the only three players with contracts on the books after next season. The Spurs likely will bring over Ian Mahinmi and add another young player (or two or three) in this summer’s draft, but they still should have a good amount of cap room after next season.
And as someone who lives in Boston, I assume you have heard of a team called the Celtics. I’m sure they’ll be eager to explain to you the advantages/disadvantages that go along with rebuilding.
Is Popovich considering a trade or what? The Spurs desperately need young legs, especially at the forward position/backup point guard position.
,b>They will not advance in the playoffs with the current roster that they have. They struggle to score at times and perhaps a trade for Clipper Corey Maggette would help. They need more athleticism. –Marlon Stepteau, Granada Hills, Calif.
The Spurs already have young legs at the backup point guard position. The concern, of course, is they belong to Beno Udrih.
Is there anyway you can email me the score after each game? –Gina, Riverside, Calif.
No. I assume if you have enough time to check your email after each game, you also have enough time to check our Web site or NBA.com or ESPN.com for the score.
Has Micheal Finley made more than 30 points? –Julio Vidaurri, San Antonio
In a game? Or this season total?
Ask the coaches to show the team “Facing The Giants.” Please. –Billye, Kingsville
I think the Spurs’ viewing time would be better spent on the Tom Izzo: Dominating Rebounding & Man-to-Man Defensive Drills video than on an inspirational football movie.
I’m behind on my movie watching, so I didn’t even know what “Facing the Giants” was until I looked it up on the internet. Here’s what one reviewer had to say:
If the majority of middle America is as stiflingly simple-minded as this movie portrays, it goes far to explain the havoc this nation has wreaked on the world.
Inept acting, simplistic characters, a trivial script and a nauseatingly trite storyline only begin to describe the mediocrity which rules this entire project.
Sounds good. The Spurs might as start planning the River Walk parade now.
Is Coach Pop going to just stand pat with his present players? At best the Spurs’ play is mediocre. The Spurs will be lucky if they make it past the first round in the playoffs.
I know Spurs fans have become spoiled with the success of their three NBA titles since ’99. To make a big trade either Parker or Gino would have to be offered up.
I'd stand pat at this point take what we get and then make some trades. Spurs may jell and get hot after the Rodeo marathon road trip. Some of the older star role players will be gone. I think Bowen will get to stay if he wants. –John H., San Antonio
Pop said he’s not trading his “top 10, 11, 12 players.” Wait. . .he just it changed it to his “top six, seven, eight, nine players.”
Not quite sure what that means, but if I’m Eric Williams or Jackie Butler, I’m renting instead of buying.
Since the SPURS do not know how to man up, why don't we bring Rodman back for rebounding and, sign Scola up right now? At least Manu and Fab don't mind going to the basket. If Bruce can’t defend, then trade him along with Barry and Eric Williams (or Beno).
We are in Texas. It is time for the SPURS to “cowboy up.” –Cheryl, San Antonio
1. Scola is in the middle of his own season in Spain, so he isn’t going to sign with the Spurs “right now.”
2. I have written the phrase “younger and more athletic” approximately 2,347 times this season in reference to the Spurs. Not once was it followed by the word “Rodman.”
3. While it is indeed true the Spurs reside in Texas, they also are in the NBA. If you want to see someone “cowboy up,” go to the rodeo.
Why are the Spurs holding on to Michael Finley and Robert Horry? They are doing nothing for us. We would be better off signing a bunch of high schoolers.
What are those guys’ problems? We need to trade them now. We will be hurt this season. I’m a coach myself. Take it from me. –Tyrone, Orangeburg, S.C.
Thanks for clarifying that you’re a coach. I’ll personally recommend to the Spurs that they take your advice for all future personnel decisions.
What do you think if the Spurs were to go after former Longhorn PJ Tucker? –Sonny, San Antonio
I think the Spurs would be better off going after current Longhorn Kevin Durant.
Can't we do what Lakers have done with using their alumni resources? I don't know why David Robinson is not hired as a personal coach. –Mark, Los Angeles
David appears to have no interest in coaching anyone but his three sons.
How do all of you people that write in call your self “loyal” and “true” Spurs fans, yet you rip the team and the decisions that they have made.
“True” fans stick with the team in good seasons and bad, and we haven't had a “bad” season in a long time. Shy of the Lakers, show me a team that has had the potential -- and three times did -- to win a championship for the last 10 years. As Spurs fans we are spoiled because they have done so well.
People who write in to this page sound like we have a team that isn't going to make the playoffs. The Mavs and the Suns are the only teams with more wins.
We need to stop with the Josh Howard whining as well. The draft is a gamble. Yes, we lost out on him and Barbosa, but look at the steals we got with Manu and Parker. All championship teams need time to rebuild.
We will have to make changes to stay competitive but we have a great team that plays better with Elson not injured and even if we don't make any changes, the Mavs and the Suns don't want to face us come playoff time. If you are a true Spurs’ fan, start acting like it.
Also, please stop with the why can’t we trade Udrih or Barry for. . .fill in a superstar of your choice here. This isn't NBA Live. You can't force a trade.
If we could do that we would just go ahead and trade Butler for Bosh, or maybe Wade, or how about KG. Maybe Denver would give us Melo just as an act of charity or good faith. Maybe we should look into trading some of you so called “true” fans. –Curt Cox, Dayton, Ohio
This is what I hate about email. I have no idea whether this letter really came from Dayton, Ohio, or 1 Spurs Lane.
Gosh! I hate the so-called “Spurs fans” but actually the Spurs detractors. They're not helping the team.
The geniuses. The people who loved our coach when we were winning. The fans that loved Rob whose big shots killed the Pistons in the Finals. The fans who loved Tony for being a scoring machine, the fans who loved Fin for making threes last season. What the (blank) happened to them?
I am a loyal fan! You hate the Spurs team when they're down and you forgot how the team made you happy when they bagged the crown. Why hate those people who were behind those victories?
(THIS IS NOT FOR YOU MR. WRITER. THIS IS FOR MY FELLOW “SPURS FANS.” SPURS: I HAVE FAITH IN YOU GUYS.) –Mark, Manila
Mr. Writer appreciates being spared from your wrath.
I can’t understand why Manu and Tony don’t see that playing through the summer nonstop for the last three or four years is hurting their team.
Manu looks like he is 40 years old. He plays well in spurts even two to three games, but fades like he did last night against Houston. Even the injuries I believe are attributed to the extended seasons.
“Tony, Manu, don't be so selfish, give it up for the team.” –Efrain Gonzales, San Antonio
I believe Manu gave up the entire right side of his face for the team the other day against the Lakers, so I’m not about to start questioning his dedication. The same goes for Tony, who rarely misses a game despite being cracked to the floor a half-dozen times a night.
If NBA teams don’t want their guys to play in international competition, they shouldn’t draft international players. It’s that simple.
Many of these guys have played in their international programs their entire lives. Telling Manu he shouldn’t play in the Olympics or the World Championships isn’t fair to either him or his country.
I will give you this much: International players need to be more selective about which tournaments they participate in. It doesn’t make much sense for Tony to run his legs off in a qualifying tournament for the European Championships.
Remember, Manu had his worst season after taking the summer of 2005 off.
Why doesn’t Popovich yell at the games when you (Spurs) do a mistake? –Krystal, Laredo
I assume you haven’t seen a game in 10 years.