Tony Parker accumulates 25 as San Antonio Spurs edge past Orlando Magic 85-83 in overtime - NBA
Fans that had assembled at the Amway Center to witness a game between their home team Orlando Magic and San Antonio Spurs witnessed one of the most exciting games of the shortened season so far.
In what was a complete thriller, 48 minutes proved insufficient to decide a winner and therefore the game went into O.T with both teams levelled at 75 all. Neither team was willing to give up in overtime as both battled hard and the scores reached 81 all with less than 40 seconds remaining.
Reserve Gary Neal, who was scoreless throughout his stint inside the court, then opened his account with probably the most crucial strike of the game. It was a an effort from downtown that turned the game in favour of San Antonio Spurs, however it was immediately neutralized to an extent by Von Wafer’s layup from the other end.
Richard Jefferson’s free throw then made it 85-83 in the favour of Spurs. Ryan Anderson attempted a three from the other end; but it flirted with the post and missed the basket, ensuring a win for the Spurs.
Greg Popovich, the Spurs coach was thrilled with the resilience his players showed down the stretch.
"They always respond and tonight they did. They were aggressive, they were physical and more than anything they just played through whatever was going to happen on the court. They didn't worry about the last play. ... Just that mental toughness that they showed after not showing it last night, that was very satisfying for the whole group."
Tony Parker was the most outstanding player of the night and marshalled the Spurs with a game high 25 points on 12 for 23 from the floor and 9 assists.
"We wanted to come here and try to play well and have an opportunity to win the game," Parker said after the game. "I'm happy it bounced our way finally."
Tim Duncan had a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds while Jefferson pounded 11 points. Tiago Splitter came off the bench and netted 10 points for his team.
Spurs shot 42.9% from the floor in contrast to 33.3% from Magic and outclassed them in the assists 18-12.
Dwight Howard led the Magic with 24 points and a phenomenal 25 rebounds whereas Ryan J Anderson bundled 17 on an accurate 10-for-10 from inside the arc. Von Wafer netted 15 on 3 for 5 from the long range while JJ Redick chipped in with his 13.
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