Post#4 » by G R E Y » Sun Nov 12, 2017 6:21 am
Well the Bulls make everyone look good, but after a dip in letting a 25 point lead drop to ten, the Spurs righted the ship in the second half, starting with a dominant third Q. They made a concerted effort to drive, pass down low, use back cuts, just beautiful movement and diversity and team ball. Stingy defense, too, and even with huge leads, if there were a couple of bad D breakdowns, then timeout, recognition, and they were locked in again. I loved that players who got beaten on D were upset with themselves, that they communicated throughout the game, and that everyone supports each other; just looks like a strongly bonded team.
With five minutes left, they couldn't buy a bucket, shooting mostly 3s. A timeout with two minutes left resulted in purposeful ball movement, plays close to the basket and easy points. Always teaching, adjusting, executing, great to see.
It's easy to take plays off with a big lead, and dips happen, but it's how a team responds that's important. So a complete team effort - eight players in double figures, an even better 3-point% than FG% which itself was a stellar 60%, outrebounded Bulls 44-28, 33 assists, with fewer turnovers (18). I love Anderson's game, LMA heated up on D and O, and Pau was an incredible anchor getting the strong start going. Gay was a constant threat on Js and post-ups, and played with more determination despite the bad back. Paul was impressive on both ends. Bertans is a bit tentative on D near the basket, but was lights out from the 3. Murray still missed bunnies, but he was assertive in his drives, as was bulldozer Hilliard who, honestly, I don't recall ever seeing play before. Costello is also another player I'd never seen play, and he was steady on D. Impressed he didn't retaliate (maybe he was just shocked?) crazy Portis's chop to the neck after Costello blocked his dunk attempt. League should look at it. Portis has no problem laying out his own team mates, let alone opponents.
Another strong third Q in a game that ends a good home stand, with this last game on an even shorter roster. I love watching the Spurs play and manage the game against the strengths and weaknesses of each opponent.
The Spurs Way
Thinking of you, Pop
#XX
