Rockets Beat Spurs

After a tough loss to the Dallas Mavericks Monday night in Dallas, many people doubted the Rockets would be able to bounce back Tuesday night and defeat the San Antonio Spurs. The Rockets proved the doubters (including yours truly) wrong.

Rockets 89, Spurs 81.

The Spurs were without forward Robert Horry (personal reasons) and back up point guard Jacque Vaughn (strained right calf); but, the Rockets' defense caused the Spurs problems most of the ball game.

Tim Duncan, the Big Fundamental, made just five of his 15 field goal attempts. Duncan scored only 14 points; and, he committed five turnovers. Tony Parker scored 21 points; but, he turned the ball over four times. Manu Ginobli scored 23 points off the bench; but, the rest of the Spurs were lifeless and unproductive.

Bonzi Wells came off the bench to score 14 points and pull down a team-high 15 rebounds. Wells' strength and activity caused problems for the Spurs throughout the game.

Yao Ming led the Rockets with 28 points. Tracy McGrady had an off night from the field (4 for 14) and scored only 14 points; but, T-Mac grabbed nine rebounds and handed out six assists.

The biggest negative for the Rockets were 18, mostly unforced, turnovers.

Rick Adelman's post-game press conference: "...Bonzi was terrific..."

Good win by the Rockets.