The Golden State Warriors likely still feel the sting of Manu Ginobili’s game-winning three-pointer in double overtime of their Game 1 loss to the San Antonio Spurs in the 2013 NBA Playoffs. Though a last second shot won the game for the Spurs, it was a monumental collapse in the fourth quarter that sealed the Warriors’ fate.
Up by 16 points with only four minutes remaining, the Warriors let the Spurs score inside and out to force overtime and an eventual Game 1 win. Stephen Curry’s amazing effort of 44 points was wasted, as was the opportunity to steal home court advantage for the Warriors and win in San Antonio for the first time in over a decade.
A big reason for the collapse came when Klay Thompson fouled out. He had been guarding Tony Parker effectively for most of the game, but when he took a seat, Parker was able to dissect the Warriors defense late in the game and get to the rim almost at will. By the time the final horn sounded, Parker had tallied 16 point alone in the fourth quarter and both overtimes.
The Spurs found success in slowing Curry down late after switching Kawhi Leonard to him in the third quarter. That move looked bad at first as Curry drove around Leonard with ease, but once the quick double-teams started, Curry’s effectiveness was dramatically reduced. Look for Curry to make some adjustments tonight and get his teammates more involved when pressure comes.
Tim Duncan left Game 1 with three minutes left after feeling upset to his stomach. Though Duncan missed most of the crunch-time comeback, he is feeling better today and expected to suit up for Game 2. San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich proved he can put a winning team on the court even with Duncan sitting out.
Tonight’s NBA 2013 Round 2 Game 2 between the Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs tips off at 8/7c on TNT in high definition. Cable or satellite subscribers with TNT in their package have the option of watching a free online live streaming version of Game 2 at San Antonio here at TNT Overtime via an iPad, mobile phone, laptop or other Internet connected device. I had picked the Warriors to win in overtime in Game 1 and nearly nailed it. For Game 2, I think the coaching staff that makes the right adjustments wins out and the Spurs take a commanding 2-0 games lead by a close 93-89 score as a result.
