Grizzlies Grab 1st Ever 3-1 Series Lead Over Spurs

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Mike Conley had 15 points and seven assists to help the eighth-seeded Memphis Grizzlies rout the San Antonio Spurs 104-86 on Monday night and grab a commanding 3-1 lead in their opening series.

The Grizzlies already had made franchise history by winning their first playoff game in Game 1 and added their first playoff win at home. Now they are a game away from becoming the second eighth seed to knock off a No. 1 seed since the NBA expanded to a best-of-seven series and join the 2007 Golden State Warriors.

Game 5 is Wednesday in San Antonio.

Darrell Arthur added 14 points off the bench for Memphis. Tony Allen had 12, Zach Randolph and O.J. Mayo 11 apiece.

Tony Parker led the Spurs with 23 points, but he also had seven turnovers. Manu Ginobili had 14, Gary Neal 11, and George Hill and Tiago Splitter 10 each. Splitter, a rookie from Brazil, had not played previously in this series.

Tim Duncan had six points on his 35th birthday.

These are the same Spurs that won 61 games in the regular season. They opened up very energetic, shooting well and even had their first halftime lead in this series.

They finished the game with their starters on the bench for the final 5:43, and now the Spurs will be trying to avoid their second 4-1 opening series loss in three seasons.

The first three games had been tight with Memphis winning by no more than three points. The Spurs won Game 2 by six.

This time it was a rout once the Grizzlies took control by outscoring the Spurs 30-15 in the third quarter for the first time in this series after trailing at the half for the first time in the four games.

Memphis opened the second half with a 14-0 run with Gasol's two free throws at 11:04 putting the Grizzlies ahead to stay at 52-50. Sam Young's dunk capped the run at 7:41 of the third for a 62-50 lead. The Spurs, who shot 55.3 percent in the first half, missed their first five shots and were 6 of 15 from the floor. They also had seven turnovers in the quarter.

The Grizzlies had every fan up and waving the rally towels handed out, cranking up the noise with every Spurs' missed shot or mistake. Arthur ended the quarter by hitting a pair of jumpers to put Memphis up 78-65 at the end of the third.

When Arthur dunked at 10:13 of the fourth putting Memphis up 83-67, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich took a timeout. It didn't help as Arthur hit a shot at 8:51 pushing the lead to 85-67.

The Grizzlies went up 94-74 on a 3 by Shane Battier who was wide open in the right corner with 5:43 left. The celebration began in earnest in Memphis.

Memphis already had become only the seventh No. 8 seed to go up 2-1 in the NBA playoffs since the league expanded the postseason to 16 teams in 1983-84, and the Grizzlies are just the third team to do it since the first round expanded to best-of-seven for the 2003 playoffs.

The Grizzlies had another electric crowd, just their sixth sellout of the season, and fans buzzed with a sense of expectation instead of mere hope for a win that surrounded this team when the Spurs swept them out of the playoffs in their first postseason trip in 2004.

The Spurs opened the game by hitting eight of their first 10 led by Parker who scored eight of the first 10 points. Memphis came out forgetting its strength is going inside to Randolph and Gasol, and Randolph set that tone by taking a long jumper as the Grizzlies' first shot. He missed, and they wound up outscored 16-6 in the paint for the quarter.

San Antonio led 26-21 after 12 minutes, the first time in this series the Spurs had outscored Memphis in the first quarter.

Greivis Vasquez had an ugly turnover at the end of the first quarter, just losing the ball. Hill took it and scored to make it 26-19. Vasquez, the second-year pro out of Maryland, rebounded by hitting his next three shots to start a 9-2 run. Mayo capped it with a fast-break layup for a 30-28 lead in the second.

Parker came into the game 15-of-44, and he hit all seven shots in the first half and his four free throws in helping the Spurs lead 50-48 at halftime. But he missed his first shot in the third quarter, a 3-pointer, at 9:58.

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The Heat roll to 2-0 lead over 76ers, 94-73

MIAMI – LeBron James outscored Philadelphia's entire starting five in the first half by himself.

So did Chris Bosh.

So did Dwyane Wade.

And that pretty much tells the tale of a night the 76ers would rather forget.

No comeback required for the Miami Heat this time. They went wire-to-wire on the lead, and moved two wins from advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

James scored 29 points, Bosh had his second straight double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds, and Miami took a 2-0 series lead with a 94-73 victory over the abysmally shooting 76ers — who managed their second-lowest playoff scoring total in the last 56 years — on Monday night.

"It was a really complete game for us at both ends of the floor," James said.

Showing no signs of the migraine that he battled Sunday, Wade scored 14 points for Miami, now 17-3 in its last 20 games and halfway to winning its first playoff series since the 2006 NBA finals.

"I'm feeling a lot better," said Wade, who wasn't able to eat Sunday and was very low-energy at times before Monday's game. "I lost a lot of weight tonight ... but I think I did my job, to come out there and help my team get a win."

Thaddeus Young scored 18 points and Evan Turner added 15 for the 76ers, whose starters were outscored 76-29 by the Heat's first-string. Philadelphia shot 34 percent for the game, and after getting 42 points in the paint in Game 1, were held to 24 in that department Monday.

"We've had good defensive performances," Bosh said, "but I think today was our best of the season."

The 76ers find themselves needing to buck some serious history. Miami has never lost a series after winning the first two games (6-0), and the Philadelphia franchise is winless in 16 tries after falling into an 0-2 postseason hole. And then there's this — only 14 teams have won after losing the first two games of a best-of-seven NBA series.

"If they're playing great, they're a better team," Sixers coach Doug Collins said. "OK? If they're playing on top of their game, they're a better team. I mean, they won 58, we won 41. That doesn't mean that we aren't going to play and compete and fight. But when they come out tonight and defend the way they did ... it's going to be very difficult for us to beat them."

It was Philadelphia's second-lowest playoff point total since 1955, the only exception coming in a 79-68 loss to Orlando in 1999. And the 76ers won that series.

Philadelphia made 15 of its first 24 shots in Game 1, a 63 percent clip. Since then: 47 of 140, 34 percent.

"You've got to give them credit," said Sixers guard Andre Iguodala, who has nine points on 4-for-15 shooting in the series.

Wade played 34 minutes, despite spending Sunday bedridden in a darkened room fighting off a migraine that he likened to a "nightmare." He had no outward ill effects, shooting 4 for 11 with six rebounds.

Instead, it's the 76ers who spent much of Monday looking pained.

"He controlled the game," James said of Wade. "He had two people on him so he just got off the ball and let other guys make things happen and it's good to have him on the court than in a suit."

Game 3 is Thursday night in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia shot only 26 percent in the first half, a record for a Heat playoff opponent. The 76ers' starters were outscored 41-9 in the opening 24 minutes, and unlike their last two meetings, never put a scare into Miami. Philadelphia had a 16-point lead in the teams' final regular-season matchup, a 14-point lead in Game 1, but simply couldn't get rolling Monday.

The 76ers didn't even have a starter reach double figures until 3:49 remained in the third quarter, when Jrue Holiday made a 3-pointer to get to 10 points. By then, James had 23, Bosh had 15 and Wade 12 — and the Heat led 68-50.

The margin kept growing from there, all the way to 28 at one point. A clearly frustrated Collins got a technical with 1:56 left and the game decided, the Heat holding a 91-67 lead.

"We just have to continue to fight," Sixers guard Lou Williams said. "Obviously we're dealing with a team that has a lot of guys that can score the basketball. ... They did what they were supposed to do, which was come out and defend the home court for two games and send us back to Philly with a sour taste in our mouths."

It was over fairly early. James said he wanted to be more aggressive in Game 2 than he was in the series opener, and apparently that message got to all corners of the Heat locker room.

Philadelphia was within 28-20 midway through the second quarter, but a 21-11 Heat run to end the half took care of that. James had consecutive baskets, the second of them a highlight-quality one-handed dunk off a high alley-oop lob from Mario Chalmers for a 37-23 lead, and Miami was off and running. That play was started by two blocks by Joel Anthony, who ignited the Heat defense all night.

"He's awesome," Bosh said.

The lead was 49-31 by halftime and 75-52 after the third quarter, in which Philadelphia shot only 33 percent but raised its percentage for the game to 28.

"Our energy tonight was much better," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said, "from beginning to end."

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Grizzlies Surprised Spurs, Hornets Nip Lakers in NBA Playoffs

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (AFP) – The New Orleans Hornets shocked the two-time defending NBA champion Lakers and upstart Memphis edged top-seeded San Antonio, Sunday in a pair of Western Conference playoff opener upsets.

Seventh-seeded New Orleans beat the Lakers 109-100 and Memphis defeated the Spurs 101-98.

Chris Paul had 33 points, 14 assists and seven rebounds for the Hornets as they seized the initiative over the Lakers in the first game of their best-of-seven series.

"Our defence was late. We were late on everything," Lakers coach Phil Jackson said. "They were aggressive and beat us to balls."

Memphis posted their first-ever NBA post-season win by stunning the top-seeded Spurs at the AT&T Center arena.

Zach Randolph scored nine of his 25 points in the fourth quarter for the eighth-seeded Grizzlies, who were making their first playoff appearance since the 2005-06 NBA season.

Marc Gasol finished with 24 points and Mike Conley had 15 points and 10 assists for Memphis, which finished with a 46-36 record in the regular season.

The Grizzlies earned their first playoff win since coming into the league as an expansion team in Vancouver, Canada, 16 years ago.

"It's nice from an annoyance perspective to have it out of the way, because I don't have to answer questions about being 0 and 13," Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins said.

They were swept by San Antonio in four games in the 2004 playoffs.

Memphis was behind in the final minute of the game when Shane Battier nailed three-pointer with 23 seconds left, giving Memphis a slim 99-98 lead.

San Antonio tried to force overtime, but Richard Jefferson missed a long range shot as the clock ticked down.

Memphis players raced onto the court as the buzzer sounded to celebrated their first playoff win in 13 attempts.

Battier was with Memphis when they were swept by San Antonio seven years ago.

"It was awesome. I'm really happy for the city," Battier said. "Beale Street will be a fun place tonight. Most of these guys don't know the history or the heartache that the city has gone through. I'm happy for the city."

France's Tony Parker led San Antonio with 20 points. Tim Duncan had 16 points and 10 rebounds for the Spurs, who lost their sixth straight playoff series opener.

But the Spurs were forced to play without all-star guard Manu Ginobili who sat out with a sprained right elbow. Ginobili was injured during the final game of the regular season against Phoenix.

He will be re-evaluated by doctors to see if he can play in Wednesday's game two of the best-of-seven series.

George Hill started in Ginobili's place but shot just two-of-seven and finished with 15 points.

The Spurs were six-of-15 from the three-point line. Matt Bonner drained two from long range in the final two minutes as his second one gave the Spurs a 96-94 lead with 88 seconds left.

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James' 27 Boost Miami past Boston, 100-77

MIAMI - If this was a preview of the Eastern Conference semi-finals, then the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics was showed what to expect.

Few pleasantries.

Pushing and shoving.

And maybe a Game 7 in Miami.

LeBron James scored 27 points, Dwyane Wade added 14 and the heat is close to No. 2 seed in the playoffs East on Sunday by beating the Celtics 100-77 sliding.

"It was a playoff-type atmosphere, fans of both teams approach the game that meant," Wade said. "He had that feeling."

Miami moved a game ahead of Boston, trimmed its magic number to clinch the second seed to two. The teams will finish second and third in some order behind Chicago in the East, slotted to play in the conference semifinals.

"We like to play, I can say that," said Celtics coach Doc Rivers. "And we will need if you want to go somewhere."

Chris Bosh added 13 points and eight rebounds for Miami, which had been 0-3 against Boston this season, while Heat coach Erik Spoelstra warned against exaggerating the importance of winning.

"We've proven we can beat them tonight," Spoelstra said. "That's about it in my mind."

Paul Pierce 24 points and Kevin Garnett added 21 for Boston, which lost 10 once in his last 19 games. The Celtics were outrebounded 42-26 and outscored 44-26 paints.

"What do you expect? The Boston-Miami," said Garnett. "Apparently, they are two, if not the best two teams in the East, expect that you should expect to come here, you will not get the call, their passion was to be expected - ... A team you've beaten three times. "

Heat finally solved the Boston Celtics beat the hex for the third time over the last 21 meetings. Bosh was 1-13 against Boston since March 2007 and the Celtics finished the two seasons from 2009-10 to Wade (first round) and James (second round).

Miami won 13 season maligned - - once in his last 16 games, and its bench outscored Boston 32-12.

"What worked for us today, we played up front together," Wade said.

Ray Allen scored 13 points for the Celtics. Rajon Rondo was held to only seven points and five assists on 3-8 shooting.

"The frustration is high on our team right now," Rivers said.

Miami players were immense.

Mario Chalmers had nine points in the second quarter when the Heat took the lead. Joel Anthony had eight rebounds in the first half, two fewer than the whole list of Boston. Zydrunas Ilgauskas scored guide to start the third heat six was the steering and Anthony used a triple-team James and immersed for a 74-59 lead in the final game of the third quarter.

Of course, it is the heat-Celtics, nothing would come easy in Miami.

An 22, Boston ran 12 straight points, Allen from a set of four points and Pierce adding both a 3-pointer and a set of three points for the Celtics in 85 to 75.

It was the last breath. 04:49 Mike Bibby's 3-pointer on the left, then Bosh followed James' left to lose the lead back to 15

"We built that seems to hold only the guys in front of us, the shots of challenges and fly around defensively," said James.

Boston scored the first game by eight points and hit eight of their first nine shots. The Celtics were making it look easy, especially when Garnett - who had not made a 3-pointer all season - a step in a left wing and connected to a lead of 22-15.

"It looked like the same old song," said Spoelstra.

He did not stay. Boston went without a goal for the next 6:17, and Miami took the lead on the first possession of the second quarter.

Tensions were already high, and emotions soon overwhelmed.

Jermaine O'Neal - who had been easily influenced by James 27 seconds earlier in transformation - tried to stop another drive, the two-time reigning MVP with a shoulder check about 4 minutes in the second, otherwise play ball.

A melee broke out shortly under the curve. O'Neal received a flagrant-1, James has a technique to throw the ball to O'Neal, Wade and Pierce also received technicals for some pushing and shoving, and a small amount of waste flew into the stands on field.

"I thought it was all theater, all the shit. I guess that's tough call in these days," said Rivers. "Two guys run into each other, you have to call an obvious mistake, which I thought was a joke. And I thought the response has been both a joke. "

Bosh got his second technical 2 1 / 2 minutes later, saying he committed a loose ball in Rondo, only to have referees in Boston granted a timeout. But the heat stayed calm, keep throwing the second half, turned his eyes toward the street games in Atlanta on Monday that infest and Wednesday in Toronto.

"It's cool and everything," Bosh said, "but we still have two more games."

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Rose leads Bulls past Celtics 97-81 - Close in on Home-court Advantage

CHICAGO - Derrick Rose scored 30 points and the Chicago Bulls on top seed closed in the Eastern Conference, beating the Boston Celtics 97-81 on Thursday.

The Bulls "The 17 in 19 games to put four games over Boston and Miami with four to play and to remove heat from entering the No. 1 seed.

The Celtics, who play the Heat on Sunday, mathematics, once again, but a remote control.

But unless the collapse, Chicago is the top seed in the East.

It is another step for a team that should great things after a major overhaul, and all the Bulls have done is to provide their best season since Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen made championship celebrations a regular event.

Rose was a highlight reel of a man against Rajon Rondo, hit him with a crossover and reach the edge, especially at the start of classes. Rose scored 16 points in the first half as the Bulls jumped out to a 48-43 lead, and Chicago after a brief regrouped in the third position.

Luol Deng scored 23 points and Carlos Boozer added 14 points and 12 rebounds.

Chicago dominated the Celtics 44-22 in the paint, outrebounded them 44-35 and held Boston to 38.4 percent shooting.

Paul Pierce led Boston with 15 points. Kevin Garnett scored his 10 points in the second half and finished with seven Rondo Jeff Green scored 10 and Ray Allen had seven points.

The Bulls led 48-43 at halftime when Pierce made a bridge and Rondo hit his first two baskets to give Boston a one-point lead, but the Bulls responded by running 10 straight, a dunk by Deng and the float Rose what it 58-49 midway through the third.

E 'state after 61-58 Glen Davis hit two free throws just over three minutes from the end of the quarter, the Bulls began a journey that stretched 13-2 in the fourth quarter.

Deng began the surge with a 3, and followed by a layup off a turnover Boozer with a steal and layup to make it 68-58 with 1:31 left. Davis hit two free throws for Boston. But Rose made a 3 with 23 seconds left in the quarter and Boozer added a play to three points 45 seconds into the fourth to strengthen the lead 74-60 in Chicago.

Not only do the Bulls in front of one of the best teams in the East, also honored with the unveiling of a sculpture Pippen him during a halftime ceremony.

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Shaq is Back for Celtics — But Only for a Moment

BOSTON – Boston Celtics center Shaquille O'Neal limped off the court 5 1/2 minutes into his first game back in more than two months with a new injury that casts new doubt on his ability to help the team in the playoffs.

After missing 27 games with a sore right leg, O'Neal entered Sunday night's game against the Detroit Pistons with 4:43 left in the first quarter. He scored on Boston's first two possessions and again later before grabbing a seat for the final play of the quarter.

Then, after returning for the start of the second, he lasted just 49 seconds more before limping off to the locker room accompanied by medical staff. The team said he had a strained right calf — the previous injury was in his right Achilles' tendon — and that he would be re-evaluated at halftime; at the break, a Celtics spokesman said he would not return.

It's not clear how long the injury will sideline the 39-year-old former NBA MVP. The Celtics had been counting on him to take important minutes at center in the playoffs — especially after trading Kendrick Perkins to Oklahoma City for Nenad Krstic, who is day-to-day with a bone bruise in his right knee.

A 15-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion, O'Neal signed with the Celtics for the veteran's minimum salary last summer for the chance to win another title. He has been limited to 37 games this season and is averaging 9.3 points.

He missed a week in November with a bruised right knee, a week in December with a calf injury and another in January with a sore right hip. He returned for three games — a total of about 34 minutes — before missing the next 27 games with what the team officially has called a sore right leg.

Although the injury was originally expected to keep him out just a few games, his absence stretched to more than two months.

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Miami Heat Seal Southeast Division Title

Newark, NJ - LeBron James had 31 points and 11 rebounds, and Miami Heat won the Southeast Division title with a 108-94 victory over the New Jersey Nets faced Sunday night.

"We do not want to be exhausted, coach Erik Spoelstra said after the Heat won their first division title since 2007." This is the first step. It is not our ultimate goal. We want to swallow As much as possible. "

Dwyane Wade added 18 points, despite a thigh injury in the first quarter and Chris Bosh had 16 as the Heat won their third in a row and eighth time in nine games.

The victory led Miami (54-23) within 2 1 / 2 games of idle Chicago (56-20) in the race for a place in the Eastern Conference. The heat has five games left, one fewer than the Bulls.

Deron Williams had 18 points and 12 assists to lead the Nets, who have lost six straight and 10 of 11 Travis Outlaw added 17 points and nine rebounds, while Brook Lopez had 16 points.

New Jersey was without leading rebounder Kris Humphries (ankle, heel) and the second straight game, and showed the plates. Miami won 50-30 advantage Erick Dampier grabbing a game-high 14

Miami's biggest concern was the game right thigh Wade. Outlaw Racing in the first quarter and spent the second quarter of changing rooms for treatment of contusion side. He convened the Court after the interval and looked so well after warmups, but he played almost 20 minutes in the second half, scoring nine points.

James was the catalyst for the Heat most of the game. He made 15 points in the first quarter and finished with 13 and 18 from the field and three assists shy of his fifth triple-double of the season.

Miami wasted no time in beating the Nets for the third time in as many games this season, and the seventh in a row overall. The Heat jumped out to lead 17-4, James and Wade will do more damage.

Wade scored six points and had an assist on an ally, PF James, who began a series of nine straight points from James.

The Heat led 26-10 when Wade's 3-pointer, and 32-18 at the end of the quarter by hitting an incredible 3:20 p.m. shots.

The Nets, who shot only 33 percent during the quarter, even within 14 points at halftime before cutting twice the margin of seven points in the third quarter.

The closest was a 83-77 Nets have two free throws by Lopez with 7:44 to go.

However, Bosh hit a jumper from the lane and James Jones hit a 3-pointer to ignite jet 11-2 that put the game away.

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Cavaliers Undo James's Triple-Double to upset Heat

In an horrendous season of losses, Cleveland got the win it wanted most.

The Cavaliers took down LeBron James.

Despite blowing a 23 point lead, the Cavs rallied and beat Miami Heat 102-90 on Tuesday night, who received a dose of revenge against James, who made his second return visit to Cleveland since he left the last summer.

JJ Hickson scored 21 and Anthony Parker scored 20 for the Cavs, who were ashamed of James and the Heat 118-90 on Dec. 2 - the night when the Cleveland fans unleashed their anger is a superstar.

This time, James left the ground, hanging his head. He finished with 27 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds.

In the last seconds, a crowd of 20,562 cut loose to win even the most loyal fans could not imagine Cleveland. Cavs owner Dan Gilbert, who has accused James quit in the playoffs last year after the two-time MVP said he was going to join Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in an ill-conceived TV special, everybody hit the high hand in hand.

On the floor behind, headed Parker, the last 3-pointers with 2:47 left capped a 12-0 run and put the heat away, Cavs fans.

"You deserve it," he said.

Cavaliers were a different team - literally - in a series against the Heat here in December. Injuries and trades have reduced list of Cleveland to a shell of a James has played with and helped win 60 games last season.

Heat almost rallied from 23 down and tied 83-all on Mike Bibby March 7 points with 7:03 left. But Miami, which wasted a chance to move into second place in the ranking of the East, has no goal for 4:24, gave the Cavs to get their 15th victory after winning the most lopsided of this season.

Wade added 24 and the Heat, who had their winning streak stopped at five.

Cleveland shot 56 percent in the countryside, a number that Heat coach Erik Spoelstra probably will use it to motivate his team to play better defense, as he prepares for the playoffs.

Baron Davis got his first start since joining Cleveland in a trade, and the veteran scored 10 points and leadership. Cavs also got a boost from center Ryan Hollins, who had 13 points, three blocks and played physical - something no player has done in Cleveland in December.

There was not the same poison and hatred that has swept the first visit of James four months ago. The audience was energetic, but not so angry action against James, who was booed every time he touched the ball. Security was extremely high, but there were no incidents reported.

The teams took turns to go on long runs in a wild district, comings and goings of others.

Cleveland scored 18 straight points and opened a lead of 71-48, sending their fans into a frenzy and put the fire in a deep hole. But Miami was far from over by Wade hit a couple 3-pointers and scored 10 points in a 19-1 syringe that fired the Heat within 72-67 on jumper James.

Christian Eyenga of 3-points with two seconds left put the Cavs front 75-67. James threw a 3-pointer a few steps after the half-field at the end of the quarter, a shot that was initially ruled no good, but changed after officials reviewed replays of television between periods and determined that there was a clock error.

James arrived at the arena, home of professional basketball in seven seasons at 05:12 wearing a helmet and a shirt with the inscription: "Long Live The King" James has security guards and greeted a few before diving into the locker room for second time visitors.

James was not sure what he would face, but he was confident things would not be nearly as hostile as his previous visit.

"I expect the worst," he said. "No. But the worst of the last time, Dec. 2?"

James dodged the first blast of whistles, remaining players in the locker room during presentations. He entered the scene around the dark, when the Cavs came.

After the return of Santiago in December, the Cavs were criticized by their fans for the way he acted around his former teammate. Fans thought they were too many jokes, and thought someone needed to step up to Santiago and to provide a drive failure.

Hollins has taken it upon himself to get physical with Wade and hit him with a forearm. Moments later, the two had words and were both assessed technicals.

James Hickson knocked on his rear in the way later in the first quarter, but James was shot as he fell to the floor and closed the game with three points. It ended the quarter with 13 points but failed to score in the second when the Cavs built a lead of 16 points.

Miami cut in half with a 8-0 run, but Davis knocked down 3-pointer to give the horn Cavs 53-42 halftime lead.

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Heat Record their 4th with 15-0 Run to Thump Pistons 100-94

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Dwyane Wade scored 24 points and Chris Bosh added 23 to help the Miami Heat rally for a 100-94 win over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night.

LeBron James had 19 points, eight rebounds and seven assists for Miami, which has won six of seven following a five-game losing streak.

The Heat trailed by 11 late in the third quarter before Mike Miller made a 3-pointer in the final seconds. Miami then scored the first 15 points of the fourth to take an 88-81 lead.

Detroit had the ball down by four in the final minute, but Greg Monroe missed a layup, forcing the Pistons to foul.

Richard Hamilton led Detroit with 27 points.

Hamilton made back-to-back 3-pointers from the same spot in the left corner late in the third to give the Pistons a 78-70 lead. Mike Bibby appeared to answer with a 3-pointer of his own with the shot clock running out, but the Miami guard's shot ended up being disallowed between quarters.

Detroit led 81-73 after three, but went scoreless until Tracy McGrady made a shot from the top of the key with 6:25 left in the game.

Detroit committed two defensive 3-second violations in the first 1:13 of the fourth, and when James Jones made a 3-pointer and James added a left-handed layup, the Heat had an 82-81 advantage — their first lead since 8-7.

Rodney Stuckey fired up the crowd a bit with a one-handed dunk on a drive through the lane for Detroit, but James did him one better shortly after that, throwing down an emphatic right-handed dunk off a pass from Wade to make it 94-85.
In his previous game at Detroit, James made news by taking a heckler to task early in Miami's win over the Pistons. The focus was on the court this time, and although James wasn't at his best, the Heat had enough offensive balance to pull through once they started shutting down Detroit early in the final quarter.

Bibby made his first start for Miami in his 11th game with the team, scoring five points. The Heat are without guard Mario Chalmers (sprained right knee) and center Zydrunas Ilgauskas (right foot infection).

Miller finished with 13 points for Miami.

Monroe had 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Pistons, while Tayshaun Prince added 13 points and Chris Wilcox scored 10.

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Knicks Deem they’ll Get it Right by Playoffs

Greenburgh, NY - Even before needing five stitches above his left eye, Carmelo Anthony understood this could be painful.

Despite the New York Knicks were seen as a dangerous team after trading for him, but are two games in 0500, and that did the trick. And the more time they spend together, the worse they played.

A team with Anthony and Amare Stoudemire, the NBA's second highest scoring duo running Mike D'Antoni's system that has suffered three straight subpar offensive Thurs and the offense is supposed to be the highlight Knicks.

But when they reach one month anniversary of his arrival, Anthony says that these games are not a surprise, and he still believes it is time for the Knicks before passing.

"It's something I tell myself I keep telling the guys on the team, at the end of the day will get where we want to do. And I'm not too worried about it," Anthony said Tuesday after practice to look a little bloated after what he said was the first time he needed stitches.

"I am sure I am in favor of making it happen, making it all work, and especially I know we are losing games at the moment, but everyone seems that their energy is up, no bend the head and the sadness of nothing because everyone knows that would not be easy. This is a long road to get where we want to be. "

It was a lot more potholes than anyone could have imagined.

New York fell to 7-9 by Anthony on Monday to acquire 96-86 loss to the Boston Celtics, when he cut off after the collision with Rajon Rondo trying to steal the pass. The Knicks have dropped six of seven years, and 35-35, is to lose a record for the first time since November, if they lose on Wednesday in Orlando team that has already been beaten twice this season.

The Knicks talked about moving to No 5 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs, but are lagging behind in Philadelphia in the seventh, after they had the No. 6 spot for more than three months.

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K'Love injured in Timberwolves' blowout loss

Minneapolis, Minnesota (Reuters) - The NBA's leading rebounder Kevin Love injured his groin and walked off the court and returned to action during the Minnesota Timberwolves '127-95 loss to the Sacramento Kings on Sunday.

Love, who earlier this season, a record in modern times in the NBA with 53 consecutive games of at least 10 points and 10 rebounds, left the game early in the second quarter and was wandering with three rebounds.

"He was just upset," said Minnesota coach Kurt Rambis team's website (www.nba.com / Timberwolves). "I was not informed about what was bothering him before the game."

Love averaged 20.6 points and 15.6 rebounds per game, before the meeting on Sunday.

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Cavs thrash Kings for rare road win

Sacramento, California - Ramon Sessions scored 20 points to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a rare road victory, against the Sacramento Kings 97-93 on Wednesday night.

Cleveland opened the season by winning three of its first four road games, but had only one win on March 4 in New York since then.

Cleveland, which snapped a four-game losing streak overall, has dropped 28 of 29 games away from home since November 10.

Marcus Thornton had 23 points for the Kings, who lost seven of eight. Samuel Dalembert contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds, Francisco Garcia and Beno Udrih both scored 14 points while rookie DeMarcus Cousins ​​had 11 points and 16 rebounds.

JJ Hickson scored 17 points for Cleveland, Luke Harangody had 15 and Samuels added 13 Samard

The game was a clash between teams with little to look forward until the NBA draft in June. Cavaliers have the worst record (13-53) in the Eastern Conference, while the Kings (16-50) has the worst record in the West.

Thornton has hit a 3 three-pointers and scored nine points in the third quarter for the Kings, who trailed by eight at one point but recovered in the last five minutes or more to take the lead 74-73 in fourth position.

When Samuels made two free throws to tie the game Udrih made a deal to turn the two cousins ​​is moving at 01:21 mark to put the Kings up 93-91. But two free throws that tied the game again Harangody 93

After an attack error against Cousins, Sessions passed three defenders and made a reverse layup for the Cavaliers ahead 95-93 with 16 seconds left.

Looking to tie the game, missed a driving layup Cousins ​​and Alonzo Gee got the rebound and was fouled quickly. Gee made two free throws with 3.3 seconds left to seal the victory.

Town six points at half, the Cavaliers used 13-3 run to take a 65-58 lead mid-third quarter. But the 3-pointer and two other Garcia, Thornton helped the Kings take 67-65 lead 4:41 left in the third.

Cousins ​​had 11 points and eight rebounds in the first half of the Kings, who led 51-45. Harangody scored 11 points for the Cavaliers rushed, who committed 12 turnovers.

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Federer, Djokovic cruise, Clijsters out in Indian Wells

INDIAN WELLS, California (AFP) – Novak Djokovic extended his match win streak to 16 and Roger Federer barely broke a sweat as they powered their way into the Indian Wells fourth round with straight-set wins.

Djokovic on Tuesday capped his 6-0, 6-1 demolition of Ernests Gulbis with back-to-back aces and Federer had an equally easy time ousting Juan Ignacio Chela 6-0, 6-2 in the $9 million WTA and ATP Masters Series 1000 tournament.

The aces were an ideal exclamation point to a perfect season so far for Djokovic who has won all 14 of his matches this year.

"I have been playing great tennis, best tennis of my life," he said.

Djokovic, who is looking to secure his second Indian Wells title, has been unstoppable this year and is 16-0 dating back to a pair of Davis Cup matches late last season.

"I cannot ask for a better start of the year," he said. "I mean, I'm just building up on that confidence and continuing to play well, and feeling up from that run that I have from Davis Cup final."

Djokovic fired four aces Tuesday as he broke Gulbis' serve five times in the 54-minute match.

"You try to take serious every opponent you have even though you are a favourite in the match," Djokovic said.

"I was just trying to keep the ball in the court, not doing too much, just returning a lot and making him play an extra shot and changing the pace."

He captured his second major title at the Australian Open in January and followed up with his 20th career ATP Tour title last month in Dubai.

The 22-year-old Djokovic has dropped just five games so far after opening with a 6-0, 6-4 against Andrey Golubev.

Djokovic moves on to face his Serbian countryman and doubles partner Victor Troicki who beat France's Michael Llodra 6-3, 6-3. Troicki and Djokovic will play each other Wednesday in singles then team up for their doubles match.

Federer was on the court just four minutes longer in the hot California desert sun than Djokovic.

Chela handed Federer the first set with a pair of double faults on the final two points. He finished with six double faults while Federer won 80 percent of his first serve points.

The three-time champion Federer is looking to regain his match fitness as he has played just three tournaments this year and hasn't made the final of the last four Grand Slams.

The 16-time major winner booked his berth in the fourth round where he will play the winner of a match between Canadian wildcard Milos Raonic and Ryan Harrison of the United States.

In other men's matches Tuesday, Czech Tomas Berdych beat Thomaz Bellucci of Brazil 6-3, 6-2, Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka defeated Marin Cilic 7-5, 6-3 and Richard Gasquet surprised 10th seed Jurgen Melzer of Germany 6-1, 6-3.

Second seed Kim Clijsters and defending woman's champion Jelena Jankovic and reigning French Open champ Francesca Schiavone, seeded fifth, were added to the growing list of seeded casualties on the women's side Tuesday.

Clijsters pulled out of her match with a shoulder injury in the second set against Marion Bartoli and Jankovic lost to Serbian countrywoman Ana Ivanovic 6-4, 6-2. Italy's Schiavone lost in a third set tiebreaker to Shahar Peer 6-4, 3-6, 7-6.

Clijsters won the first set 6-3 but then called for the trainer early in the second set before packing it in with Bartoli leading 3-1.

The sixth seeded Jankovic was attempting to become the first women since Martina Navratilova (1990 and 1991) to defend her title at Indian Wells.

"I just didn't move. I felt really stuck with my feet," Jankovic said. Ivanovic added to the Serbian assault on Indian Wells Tuesday by hitting seven aces and saving six-of-seven break point chances to post her seventh win over Jankovic in 10 meetings.

"I'm really happy," Ivanovic said. "I played some good tennis in the past few weeks. To play consistent on that level, I'm really pleased."

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Bosh scores 30, the Heat roll Spurs 110-80

MIAMI - The Miami Heat was in the inversion symmetry.

Lose 30 San Antonio, winning 30 in Miami.

Chris Bosh scored 30 points and 12 rebounds, Dwyane Wade scored 29 and the Miami Heat avenged their worst loss of the season by rolling over the NBA-leading Spurs 110-80 on Monday night.

"It 's really huge for us, just to get even with this team," said Bosh. "They beat us pretty good, and I'm glad we were able to make a perfect game today. But at the same time is only a game."

LeBron James finished with 21 points, eight assists and six rebounds and the Heat, who have won three straight and moved two games in the Eastern Conference of the pioneers in Boston and Chicago.

Miami lost 125-95 at San Antonio on March 4, the midpoint of a five-game slide that now seems almost forgotten after the victories over the Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, and now the Spurs.

"Sometimes when you get the results we have and who have this extreme noise from the outside, which can be a distraction if you let it," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra. "But in terms of types confidence, never wavered. This is a very confident group. But the consistency that we had in the last three games is something we can build."

It was the Spurs' biggest regular-season loss since April 7, 2005, a 104-68 defeat to Dallas.

Tony Parker scored 18 points and Tim Duncan added 14 for the Spurs, who won 15 of their last 18 against Miami. Before Monday, the worst loss in San Antonio this season was a 96-72 defeat to New Orleans.

And he has been instrumental in the scoring column: Miami outrebounded the Spurs 47-33 and shot 54 percent in San Antonio 38.

"We did a lot of shots in San Antonio and have done a lot of shots," said Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, whose team suffered its third lowest total score is the fifth-worst shooting effort of the season. "What goes around comes around."

According to STATS LLC, is only the second time in NBA history that two clubs had two series win once with 30 or more. The second event came last season as Dallas beat New York 50 to Madison Square Garden, then lost at home to the Knicks with 34 nearly two months later.

Add San Antonio 123-101 loss to Orlando on Dec. 23, and the Spurs two trips to the Sunshine State this season were the losses by a combined 52 points.

Mario Chalmers scored 11 for Miami. Manu Ginobili finished with 12 and Antonio McDyess scored 10 for the Spurs.

"They needed the game more than us," said Ginobili. "They were more shocked than us, and are a good team. We're not playing for second division in Asia. We're talking about the Heat."

When the teams met a week and a half ago, it was more after one quarter. San Antonio ran an advance of 36-12, eight 3-pointers in the first quarter alone en route to a franchise-record 17 connections beyond the arc.

Funny how things even out: In Miami, the Spurs were able to get very little out of the paint in the fall. They finished 6 for 22, 3.

San Antonio shot just 6 of 25 from the field in the first half, 1 of 9 in the second quarter and the Heat held the Spurs to their fourth lowest output during the first 24 minutes of a game this season. The driver of the Heat was 49-39 at halftime, with Bosh and Wade combined for 31 points and 12 rebounds along the road.

Meanwhile, Duncan and remove McDyess - 9 and 13 combined in the middle - and the Spurs were downright devastating offensive. Together, their comrades fired nine of 33 in the first two quarters.

"They definitely had a lot of energy," Parker said the heat. "But all in all, they just played better than us."

The Spurs are things going in the third, particularly Parker, who hit June 5 shots and scored 14 in the period.

But the result was never in doubt. Wade took James for a dunk with 10:14 left, then uttered a joyous cry the way back to the other end. It was a cry of longer duration 17 seconds later, after stealing the ball to Steve Novak and calls for a dunk of his own that led to Miami 87-67 edge.

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Howard achieves NBA scoring milestone in Magic victory over Suns

PHOENIX, Arizona (AFP) - Dwight Howard Orlando reached a milestone marking the NBA on Sunday, but he was happier to finally get out of Phoenix with a win.

Magic has a long history of losing to the Suns, Arizona, dating back to November 2001 - when Howard is only 15 years.

"I had not won here since I'm in the NBA, so it was our goal together," said Howard, "to get a good victory."

He did his part, delivering 26 points with 15 rebounds and five blocked shots. Howard sat the fourth quarter watching from the bench as the Magic completed a 111-88 victory.

For good measure, Howard has surpassed 10,000 career points with a little hook on Robin Lopez in the third quarter, but the stage was very important to him.

"I never look at the points," Howard said. "Rebounds and blocks are what win games for me."

Magic Six other players had two points, led by Brandon Bass 17 and Gilbert Arenas 16

But Magic coach Stan Van Gundy noted that Sun was a "completely different team" without veteran point guard Steve Nash, who missed the contest with what the team called "watershed approach".

Aaron Brooks in place by Nash 19 points and 10 assists.

Aaron Brooks was very good today. He scored a lot, but Steve Nash makes the whole world, everybody plays, "Van Gundy said." We were fortunate that we've played twice without Steve Nash and is a completely different ball game. "

Even so, it was a morale building win at Orlando on Monday before the match against two-time defending champion Los Angeles Lakers.

Orlando had lost three or four, most recently, a 123-120 overtime loss to Golden State on Friday.

But they dominated the depleted Suns, who are 0-3 without Nash this season.

The defeat meant Phoenix could not lay down the possibility of moving in a half-game of the day before the Memphis Grizzlies for the eighth and final postseason in the Western Conference.

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Cotto Stops Mayorga in 12th Round to Retain WBA Title

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (AFP) - Puerto Rico, Miguel Cotto retained his World Boxing Association super welterweight crown by stopping Ricardo Mayorga of Nicaragua 53 seconds to 12 Thurs

Cotto has imposed that the precipitation of the fight in the opening seconds of the last round in an exchange with a beautiful left hook, unbelievable Mayorga, who knelt and took the left hand in pain.

"This corner was the only one to decide the fight," Cotto said after Saturday's game. "The match was wide, but the finish was fantastic."

Mayorga has increased and continued for a few seconds, but Cotto landed a tingling in the chest and Mayorga challenger seconds later stopped the fight, said he could not continue because of his injured hand.

"Left hand, one of these combinations, I heard he hit the back of my hand and started to damage the" Mayorga said. "I started trying to make a fist and I could not. Then I said I could not continue."

Cotto improved to 36-2 with his 29th strike in the distance in his first fight after a layoff of nine months, including surgery on his right shoulder.

Former world welterweight champion Mayorga fell to 29-8 with one drawn only three months after the dismissal of 26 months, then said he would retire.

"I'll get a job," said Mayorga. "It is time to retire.

Mayorga taunted Cotto in the weeks before the fight, but said after the fight, "I never wanted any of this. It's all promotion. It's entertainment." Cotto, meanwhile, never let the verbal jousting disturb his concentration.

"He has not left my bed." Cotto said. "I just keep my job and just be myself."

Awesome trade began in the first few seconds, with the warning shots the referee Robert Byrd Mayorga behind the head and low blows in the first round.

Mayorga had a couple of lefts to the head of evil, and then shook his head to indicate he does not hurt, a routine that played throughout the fight.

Second round, Mayorga landed a solid uppercut and a pair of right hands cut off his head, but said Cotto left solid, using the moments when the challenger has tried to slow the pace fast.

Mayorga backed into a corner in the middle of the third inning, taunting Cotto to come to him. The Master pressed the attack but would not be tricked into dropping his composure and patience to the fight against the wily veteran.

Cotto, the progression right shoulder surgery, showed no signs of trouble to throw a strong right hand punches and blows.

Mayorga, who turned 38 on Thursday, had promised to knock out Cotto in the fourth round, but failed, even though he landed five consecutive shots, a gust of wind at the finish.

Cotto, 30, was the best of several exchanges in the fifth round, scoring with solid left hooks and uppercuts.

"He hits very hard (but) it does not scare me," Mayorga said Cotto.

Mayorga caught Cotto early in round seven with a left to the body and solid rights to the head and later in the round with an uppercut and several hard rights.

"Time to strong fighter," Cotto said Mayorga. "He has time to strong hands. He can not win. He can beat anyone."

Cotto took an elbow to attack all the time, but Mayorga effectively counter punch right in the ninth and tenth tuiskuttaa day.

Mayorga taunting Cotto resumed mid-11 round, but the champion kept his focus and kept challenger at bay, creating dramatic end.

If Mayorga made his decision to retire, has lost five of their last nine fights career. He also fell in 2008, Shane Mosley, Oscar de la Hoya in 2006, Felix Trinidad in 2004 and Cory Spinks in 2003.

Cotto is now hoping that the chance to avenge 2009 loss Filipino superstar Manny Pacquiao and Mexico in 2008 defeated by Antonio margaritas, whose victory was marred by a one-year ban after traces of the glove was found after the battle , beat Cotto.

Other potential competitors are the future of Mexico Saul Alvarez undefeated champion of the World Boxing Council super welterweight.

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Bosh fires Heat to Win over Lakers

MIAMI (Reuters) - Chris Bosh strengthened to help the Miami Heat star to a five-game series with a 94-88 victory over two-time NBA champion to defend the Lakers in Los Angeles on Thursday.

Bosh, who had complained about his limited role in the team's offense during the Depression led to 24 points and nine rebounds for Miami as the leader of south-east heat to secure playoff berth.

"I was aggressive coming to the ball, but were uninterested left me," said Bosh. "I was not playing. I just wanted to focus on going hard."

When the game tied 88-88, Miami, Dwyane Wade had the ball in Kobe Bryant and LeBron James has sent a clear undisputed embed with 1:27 still, that the Heat ahead for good.

"It was an opportunity to really just keep our composure and execute down the stretch, stopping when the pressure was on the game when the pressure is on," said Bosh.

"It 's been there during the last three minutes. I think our mind and psyche, it was very important."

Wade added another field goal and James secured the victory with two free throws with 19 seconds at the end of the Lakers sequence of eight consecutive victories.

"We must move forward," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra.

"The most important thing to go through a stretch like that, men are not close. The kids want to do this work. The more we are, the more convinced that we will succeed.

"But it's a game we're not on the mound. We still need to improve and improve."

Very low score in the third quarter, the Lakers have threatened to take command of the race game 9-0 to create a game high six-point lead, but the heat stopped their momentum and lead shaved to two points going to the previous quarter.

"I think they (Miami) can play better than them," Lakers coach Phil Jackson said. "I hope to see later this year."

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Kevin Love passes Moses Malone with 52nd double-double in row

Minneapolis (AP)-Kevin Love recorded his 52nd double-double in a row to pass Moses Malone for the longest streak of its kind since the ABA and NBA merged in 1976 with the Minnesota Timberwolves "101 -75 plummeting over Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night.

Love overcame a bruised left knee that put up 16 points and 21 rebounds in just 27 minutes to help the Timberwolves won for just the 16th time this season. Love wasted no time extending the streak of double-digit points and rebounds, with just under seven minutes to play in the first half.

Tyler Hansbrough (Notes) scored 21 points for the Pacers, who shot a season-low 29 percent lost their fifth straight. Forward Danny Granger managed just 10 points in two of his 19 shots.

Michael Beasley (Notes) added 16 points and eight rebounds in 22 minutes for Minnesota.

Love was not even sure he was going to play the game just before tipoff after bruising his left knee in a loss to Dallas on Monday. But he decided to give it a go.

With the ringing in quick Pacers, Love had 10 rebounds in just 12 minutes of playing time and people knew it too.

Love grabbed his first rebound of the first 10 seconds of the game, and a fan shouted, "That 's what! And 'that! "

He went to the free throw line with 6:51 to play in the first half and nine points and 10 rebounds, and the audience rose to its feet and roared.

The first free throw splashed through, and love gave a deep sigh of relief that his execution was announced. He gestured to the crowd, and then went back to work.

Only nine players in NBA history, both before and after the merger, there were at least 50 double-doubles. Eight of love-Malone, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Elgin Baylor, Walt Bellamy, Wilt Chamberlain, Elvin Hayes, Jerry Lucas, Bill Russell, are in the Hall of Fame.

Next on the list of the longest streaks are Hayes of 55 straight in 1973-74.

Better yet, love to see the entire fourth quarter from the bench, resting a knee that clearly bothers him as he lay on the ground. The Timberwolves won for only the 12th time in their sequence.

Pacers are in the midst of a streak of their own, and it's not a good idea. After winning seven of their first eight games following the firing of coach Jim O'Brien, Pacers have lost seven of their last eight games and lost an average of 17 points over the last five years.

They entered the 1 1 / 2 night games ahead of Charlotte Square in the eighth and final playoff and hit a new low in getting blown of the worst teams in the Western Conference.

Hansbrough made two of his first four shots but his teammates have lost their first 15 shots. The game got out of hand in the third quarter when Indiana scored only two points in the first six minutes of delay of 22.

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Magic Rally to Stagger LeBron and Miami

MIAMI (Reuters) - The Orlando Magic Miami numbed with a return in the second half inspired on Friday, overcoming a deficit of 24 points with a burst of three points to secure a thrilling 99-96 victory in heat.

The Magic took control with a run of 18 points fools right in the fourth quarter, spelled out a late fee of Miami in the final seconds of the match.

"That one almost defies explanation," said Magic coach Stan Van Gundy.

"Even six minutes into the second half, we just looked down and out. We had no way to stop 'em.

"It was a great comeback. This is probably one of those games I will remember in 10 years. When I forget everything except all losses. This is a victory that I could remember. "

Orlando, who scored an impressive 48 points from the three point line, led all scorers with 24 points from Jason Richardson to move within three games of Miami to lead the Southeast Division.

LeBron James had 29 points and Dwyane Wade added 28 to lead the way to Miami, the duo combined for 47 points as the heat of an advance of 63-45 at halftime.

"We're measuring right now. We just keep pushing through. There is no other way to put it," said Heat coach Erik Spoelstra.

"The guys really wanted it. For most games, we played hard enough to get there and then the tide turned already."

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Cotto vs. Mayorga - Preview & Prediction

Miguel Cotto recovery from shoulder surgery is more effective, and his next opponent was announced. On 12 March, "Junito" compete with the thug Ricardo Mayorga of Nicaragua. This is an important must-win for both men. The 37-year-old Mayorga was apparently reached the end of his career, and has been blocked in its efforts to make a comeback he had considered a jump to MMA. Beat Cotto and WBA Light Middleweight title would give him a new life. The questions are opinionated Cotto since he was beaten to a pulp by Antonio Margarito in 2008. Although Cotto could not get more than one pay for a victory over older Mayorga, a loss would signal the beginning of the end for Cotto's career.

Ricardo Mayorga (29-7 with 23 KOs)

37 years old, 5'9 ", 70" reach

Nicaragua

Welterweight champion, a former Light-middleweight Champion

El Matador "was short of money, because otherwise it is hard to imagine why he would do such a do-or-die encounter. Of course, power and style Mayorga fight are also very characteristics that boxer. However, his chin has been weakened over time. Mayorga is still a step, but no man can take. Ricardo Mayorga has lost four of their last eight trips, his last victory of any substance over Fernando Vargas had spent even more on its sales of Mayorga. Nicaragua is not just over the hill, but rusty. Its location in December 2010 against the worker was the first exit after Mayorga Shane Mosley walloped him in 2008.

Miguel Cotto (35-2, 28 KOs)

30 years old, 5'7 ", 67" reach

Puerto Rico

The current WBA heavyweight champion, a former welterweight champion light welterweight

Miguel Cotto is widely regarded as damaged goods after his beat-down concrete-Amir (literally) margaritas Antonio and his confrontation with the fastest murderess from the Philippines, Manny Pacquiao. The question is "how damaged she is?" In the end, though Yuri Foreman meeting proved nothing Cotto became the winner of an encounter with Joshua Clottey in 2009.

A distraction "Junito" has clearly lost something in terms of simple, cost too many wars, but his biggest problems is that her face is almost made of scar tissue, and personal. When your opponent skips his or her head is a good shot, Cotto's face turns red and loses his cool. Cotto also interferes with the internal problems and the death of his father. Hope is all behind him, and it allows for the new coach Emmanuel Steward Cotto can take advantage of his exceptional talent.

Cotto vs Mayorga Prediction and Analysis:

Ricardo Mayorga is a big man in the ring that night, hands down. I expect him to do his usual ferocious attack, and the results of the battle entirely determined by how the attack is not the original two or three shifts. If Mayorga to communicate with the hard and bust open Cotto, he takes the initiative and will probably keep it, and this leaves cooked blood gushing out and win an arrest.

However, if Mayorga Miguel Cotto can box as you Joshua Clottey, could complicate the race of the offender Nicaragua bull and start scoring. Clottey is a plodder than Mayorga, Mayorga, but equally there is Clottey from the standpoint of the defense and is intended to be a counter-punched. After three or four rounds of punishment takes a lot of steam out of the worn-down Mayorga. In this case, Mayorga will rally and then make another stab at the overwhelming Cotto, but fails. Cotto may be cut sooner or later, but it can avoid cutting a jack-hammered out a bloody mess and will carry a fixed point of victory.

Mayorga may be a bigger man, but Cotto is tuned, and despite the wear, younger and fresher the two fighters. They are already intimidated to fight, but Cotto is clear the storm and a box of their way to victory.

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Miami Heat Part With Carlos Arroyo, Clearing spot for Mike Bibby

MIAMI - LeBron James spoke with Mike Bibby, one week after the last game, and twice NBA MVP title keeps the exact details of this private conversation.

One thing is known: It was a recruiting ground.

"I gave him the eye," James said. "And I think the eye worked."

Since Wednesday evening, James and the heat can not say that with certainty.

The heat released Tuesday by a file location paths separated by Carlos Arroyo, and even if the team officials had no comment because the rules of the NBA, more players - James, Dwyane Wade, Mario Chalmers, among others - have Bibby said the council shortly.

Bibby should be in South Florida Wednesday, are likely to participate in target practice in the morning practice Thursday and be in uniform when the Heat play the Orlando Magic of the night.

"I think it's a good thing for us," said Eddie House keeps heat, Bibby's brother. "He will do many things that can help LeBron, Dwyane and everybody here."

Miami move Arroyo announced in time for the veteran guard to sign with another team and be eligible to list their playoffs.

"It was a very difficult decision to make because Carlos has done a great job for this team and this organization," Heat president Pat Riley said. "It is truly a first class individuals and professionals. We wish him nothing but the best. "

Bibby has been sold to Atlanta and Washington last week. It 'was in Miami on Friday for his first - and, ultimately, the next-to-last - Wizards game that he was aware of the marks buyout, but no one knows what the future may hold.

"I can not control," said Bibby.

Wizards and Bibby reached an agreement to acquire, on Monday, and it did not take long to make his next destination. This means that the heat at a crucial moment of the season, will give a new point guard in training on the fly how to play the game.

"It's easier with experienced players with a high IQ and has a definite system and philosophy," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra. "What we're doing."

As Bibby is a player the Heat on Wednesday, Spoelstra could not talk to him separately.
James could.

"It will help us immensely," said James.
The Heat had discussions with other players who have hit the market through acquisitions, such as Troy Murphy, who should be signed on Wednesday in Boston. If Murphy has taken over in Miami, the Heat probably would have left the little-used big man Jamaal Magloire to create a roster.

Magloire was relieved to be at practice on Tuesday.

"I'd be disappointed otherwise" Magloire said.

Spoelstra said he can not wait to ask what will happen to Miami to file late.

"Once you have passed that date, you can focus on absolutes - as you and you do not," said Spoelstra. "And we're close. ... I think our team is good enough."

Miami (43-17) entered play Tuesday, a game behind Boston (43-15) and the first game in Chicago (41-17) contest first place in the Eastern Conference.

Bibby averaged 9.4 points and 3.6 assists as a starter with Atlanta this season, his 13 in the league. The heat became the fifth NBA team, a list which also includes Vancouver, Sacramento, Atlanta Hawks and the Wizards, who shot a 9 in two games after the trade of what he said was taken by surprise the week pass.

He also appeared and started in 80 playoff games, which is more than any other current player heat. Zydrunas Ilgauskas and James have been in 71 playoff games, all during their time together in Cleveland.

"Some features are surprising and unexpected," said Wade. "The Mike Bibby (trade) was probably the most surprising, unexpected moves. Many people think that it was Kendrick Perkins moves (from Boston to Oklahoma City), but I think it was Mike Bibby. Nobody expected it. It became available and when the opportunity arises, you have to jump on them. "

Arroyo was not at practice and did not immediately respond to a text message. He started 42 games for Miami this season and played in seven, but recorded only 27 minutes of cutting time from 30 January - more than half of that coming in a game February 16 in Toronto.

"It is never easy," said Wade. "It's always bitter, especially in this situation. We look at it, he has been doing an excellent job of Carlos really done anything wrong. It is very regrettable. The only thing that can only hope lies in a good situation."

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New-look Nuggets Bang Short Handed Celtics 89-75

DENVER – The integration of five new players offensively will take time for the Denver Nuggets. Defense? That came immediately.

Nuggets kept short-handed - and shortened - Boston Celtics profit in the last minute over six Thursday night, closing the game with a 16-0 run 89-75 victory, their second in a row from the front Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups at the New York Knicks.

"Defense is all effort," said Kenyon Martin, who led Denver with 18 points and 10 rebounds despite playing with the flu and missing the second quarter to get two bags of intravenous fluids.

"This is the difficulty of play. Plans to come and go," said Martin. "This is simply to give maximum effort every day. That's what we did. That's what we will continue to do so."

Wilson Chandler, one of the newcomers, had 16 points and eight players each played more than 20 minutes coach George Karl system to spread the new wealth stars Ty Lawson and Raymond Felton time to divide point to the last five minutes when they were in the field and helped the Nuggets to get out.

The game between two teams who have transformed their lists before the NBA trade deadline. Nuggets took a lot of new players and the Celtics a lot of empty seats along the bench after a wave of occupations that have landed a large group of men.

Celtics dressed only nine players and had to fight through the emotions of losing center Kendrick Perkins, who was treated in Oklahoma City to forward Jeff Green in the greater Boston trio trading Thursday.

"Tough day to play basketball," said Kevin Garnett. "Very difficult day to play basketball, not concentrated. Being honest right. You feel like you lost a family member today. Hard day. "

"It was very moving, especially for me is that I had the chance to see Perkins grow from day one, fresh from high school who come here and see the level he has come to a team of championship, "said Paul Pierce." It's definitely emotional. I had the chance to talk with him this afternoon a little, he was certainly injured. The guys around this locker room was pretty painful to see Perk go. "

Nuggets, 2-0 since trading Melo, had their full complement of players, but their best defensive player, Martin, spent the second quarter in the locker room.

New Nuggets Chandler, Danilo Gallinari and Felton went to a slow start, combined to shoot 2 for 12 in the first half, which ended in Denver ahead 37-36.

Denver took a 61-60 in the fourth quarter, when the pace taken lightly.

Pierce led Boston with 17 points, hit a 3-points with 6:05 left that gave a lead of 75-73 in Boston, but the Celtics would not score again.

Chandler 3-pointer put Denver in front of a good, and three-point play by Martin with 3:03 left gave Denver the largest lead to a point at 79-75.

Celtics Eastern Conference leading also dealt reserve Nate Robinson Thunder and scored Nenad Krstic, a future first round draft picks and cash in accordance Perkins.

Earlier in the day, the Celtics draft picks acquired by sending forward Luke Harangody and rookie center Semih Erden in Cleveland and forward Marquis Daniels injured in Sacramento.

With such a short bench for coach Doc Rivers to work with, called the Celtics center Chris Johnson of the D-League, made him sign a contract for 10 days and put right to work. He scored six points.

Once loaded inner dimension, the Celtics now have the hope of Shaquille O'Neal and Jermaine O'Neal to get healthy in time for the playoffs.

"We have healthy Shaq. Shaq will be healthy. But if Shaq plays a lot, this operation was obviously very, very good for us," said Rio.

Participation Krstic center from Thunder, when they returned to the NBA from Russia in December 2008 should help to mitigate the loss of Perkins Boston.

It was not just the Perkins' departure, the Celtics were so sad.

"We lost Semhar, Luca, Quis" Garnett said, stopping. "Just a tough day. A difficult day."Nuggets hope to stay in playoff race in the West after the megadeal that led Gallinari, Felton, Chandler, and Timofey Mazgov Kosta Koufus New York and Minnesota.

"The last two games have probably been more fun for me to coach and win because you play a strong and united," said Karl. "We have too many talented children. It can not be the same story every night, but we'll see how you can score points and we'll find a way to win if we play hard and defend. "

The Celtics are concerned about its chemical composition without Perkins.

"I'm sorry to lose a teammate like Perkins," Pierce said. "He meant so much. People do not understand the chemistry of the bus engine is derived from the dressing room, so it's definitely a shock. It depends on how the other guys to adjust.

Pierce also said that this is an example of the ruthlessness of the NBA for both.

"The nature of business," he said. "People think LeBron James was ice cold in Cleveland the way it is. This is an example of how to do it consistently until the end. It can not be angry with the players, because it can happen to them suddenly, as if the player can be anywhere he wants. It 's just a real character. "

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