One of the greatest games in Philippine basketball history. B-Meg defeats Talk 'n Text in Game 7 to win Commissioner's Cup.

B-Meg Llamados celebrate their Commissioner's Cup victory.

Last night, I was at home watching Game 7 of the PBA Commissioner's Cup Finals between two heavyweight teams, the B-Meg Llamados and the Talk 'n Text Tropang Texters. After 6 games of a tightly contested series, it all came down to this one final showdown between these two talented teams. I was rooting for the Llamados to win the title.

The contest was tightly contested as both teams fought over for control of the game. B-Meg came out of the gates early led by their trio of import Denzel Bowles, James Yap and Peter June Simon, but Talk 'n Text came roaring back led by Jimmy Alapag, Jayson Castro, import Donnell Harvey and their deep cast of players as they took control of the game right down to the 4th quarter. Unfortunately for Talk 'n Text in the 4th, the lose key players along the way like three-point marksman Ranidel de Ocampo to cramps, defensive dynamo Ryan Reyes who has been successful in hounding James Yap defensively to a sore left knee, import Donnell Harvey to fouls and even Jimmy Alapag to cramps. B-Meg took advantage of the situation made a late surge that cut the Talk 'n Text lead to 2 points at 74-76. They had possession with 13 seconds left in the game. James Yap missed a three pointer, but got the ball back and made a pass to Denzel Bowles who missed the lay-up at the buzzer.

After the play I thought that the game was over and Talk 'n Text had won the title, but a twist of fate came along as the referees called a foul on Kelly Williams on the Bowles lay-up. So Bowles came down to the line with the team's fortunes hanging by the palm of his hands and took two free throws under pressure which he sinks to tie the game at 76. Talk 'n Text had 1.2 seconds to work with, but they have no timeouts as Jayson Castro went for a full-court heave that went offline.

Well, as luck turned out we're going to overtime.

In overtime, Bowles took over, the Best Import of the Conference led the Llamados scoring 11 of the Llamados 14 points in overtime as the Tropang Texters had no answers against Bowles after Talk 'n Text import Harvey fouled out in the 4th and eventually their other big man Ali Peek fouled out in overtime. Bowles finished with an impressive statline 39 points, 21 rebounds and 3 blocks. A double-double for the B-Meg import.

The final score: B-Meg Llamados 90-84 Talk 'n Text Tropang Texters

It was an emotional win for the Llamados as seen on the highlights, the entire team from the players like Bowles who was emotional after sinking the two clutch free throws that sent the game into overtime to coach Tim Cone and his assistant coaches, to team manager Alvin "The Captain" Patrimonio who had led the franchise to victories as a player when the team was called Purefoods, and to the entire B-Meg Planet present at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and those watching on television around the Philippines in which coach Cone quotes that he never experienced a fan base that gave their wholehearted love and support to the team.

James Yap was crowned the Finals MVP. Yap finished with 12 points in Game 7. Peter June Simon who struggled in the last 3 games came alive and added 14 points. While point guard Josh Urbiztondo added 12 points.

You've got to give credit to the Tropang Texters who were resilient up to the final moments and kept on fighting despite losing players during the course of the game. Jimmy Alapag led the Tropang Texters with 29 points. Import Donnell Harvey scored 16 before fouling out in the 4th quarter. Larry Fonacier scored 11. Ali Peek scored 10 before fouling out in overtime. Also give credit to Jayson Castro and the rest of the Talk 'n Text team led by coach Chot Reyes, they put on a thriller of a series.

This game could be mentioned as one of the greatest games in Philippine basketball history. Words can describe this game: emotional, thrilling, all-out, resilient, loud, and many words to describe this game. Everything in a Game 7 you can ask for were on display in this great game between these two teams.


Well, I can say that it is one of the greatest games that I have witnessed in my entire life. I myself want to watch replays of this game for this was a epic showdown for the ages.

Once again, Congratulations to the B-Meg Llamados for winning the 2012 PBA Commissioner's Cup. A well deserved victory.

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog Playoff Edition: Knicks avoid the sweep with Game 4 win vs the Heat 89-87. 76ers, Celtics and Lakers take 3-1 leads.

Carmelo Anthony drives on LeBron James

Photo ©NBA/Knicks.com

The New York Knicks avoid the sweep and snap a 13 game playoff losing streak with a Game 4 victory over the Miami Heat at Madison Square Garden 89-87. Game 5 will be back in Miami on May 10 as the Heat will have another chance to advance into the second round.

Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with 41 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Amar'e Stoudemire who came back after injuring his left hand after he punched a fire extinguisher after their loss in Game 2 finished with a double-double 20 points and 10 rebounds. J.R. Smith off the bench added 7 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals. Mike Bibby added 6 points and 5 rebounds. Tyson Chandler pulled down 9 rebounds with 2 steals.

LeBron James led the Heat with 27 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Dwayne Wade added 22 points, 3 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals and 3 blocks. Chris Bosh added 17 points and 9 rebounds. Mario Chalmers and Udonis Haslem each scored 6.

In Philadelphia, the Philadelphia 76ers are one win away from pulling an upset as they pick up the win in Game 4 of their first round series against the top-seeded Chicago Bulls at the Wells Fargo Center 89-82. Game 5 will be back in Chicago on May 9 as the Bulls will try to keep their season alive at home. Spencer Hawes led the 76ers with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. Jrue Holiday added 20 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Andre Iguodala finished with a double-double 14 points and 12 rebounds with 3 steals. Evan Turner added 9 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Thaddeus Young off the bench scored 8. Elton Brand added 7 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks. Lou Williams also scored 7 off the bench. Carlos Boozer led the Bulls with a double-double 23 points and 11 rebounds with 4 assists and 2 steals. C.J. Watson added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Taj Gibson off the bench also finished with a double-double 14 points and 12 rebounds with 4 blocks. Luol Deng added 11 points and 5 rebounds.

In Boston, the Boston Celtics take a 3-1 series lead with a victory in Game 4 over the Atlanta Hawks at the TD Garden 101-79. Game 5 will be back in Atlanta on May 9 as the season for the Hawks is on the line at home. Paul Pierce led the Celtics with 24 points, 4 rebounds and 2 blocks. Rajon Rondo finished with a double-double 20 points and 16 assists with 3 rebounds and 3 steals. Kevin Garnett added 13 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Ray Allen off the bench added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Brandon Bass and Keyon Dooling each scored 10. Josh Smith who came back from an injury he suffered in Game 2 led the Hawks with a double-double 15 points and 13 rebounds with 5 assists. Al Horford also coming back from a injury that kept him sidelined since January added 12 points and 5 rebounds coming off the bench. Jannero Pargo added 11 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Joe Johnson scored 9.

In Denver, the Los Angeles Lakers take a commanding 3-1 series lead with a Game 4 victory over the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center 92-88. Game 5 will be back in Los Angeles as the Lakers have a chance to wrap up the series at home. Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Andrew Bynum added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 3 blocks. Pau Gasol added 13 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Jordan Hill off the bench finished with a double-double 12 points and 11 rebounds. Ramon Sessions also scored 12 points with 4 rebounds. Steve Blake scored 10. Danilo Gallinari led the Nuggets with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Andre Miller off the bench added 15 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. Ty Lawson added 11 points and 6 assists. Al Harrington added 9 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals.

2012 NBA Playoffs Bracket (as of 13:00 PHT)

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Spurs vs #8 Jazz (Spurs lead series 3-0)

Game 4: May 8, 8:00 am PHT on Basketball TV

#4 Grizzlies vs #5 Clippers (Clippers lead series 2-1)

Game 4: May 8, 10:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Lakers vs #6 Nuggets (Lakers lead series 2-1)

Game 5: May 9, 10:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#2 Thunder vs #7 Mavericks

OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER WINS SERIES 4-0

EASTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Bulls vs #8 76ers (76ers lead series 3-1)

Game 5: May 9, 9:30 am PHT on Basketball TV and NBA Premium TV

#4 Celtics vs #5 Hawks (Celtics lead series 3-1)

Game 5: May 9, 8:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Pacers vs #6 Magic (Pacers lead series 3-1)

Game 5: May 9, 7:00 am PHT on Basketball TV and NBA Premium TV

#2 Heat vs #7 Knicks (Heat lead series 3-1)

Game 5: May 10, 7:00 am PHT Channel TBD

K-Smoove

Back when I was (near) bald.

Me (center) with some of my high school PEEPS at Eastwood City (c. 2009)

Photo ©Karl Carandang

It was the day before my birthday last April 30, I came by and stumble some photos on my Facebook wall featuring some of my classmates in college back in their high school days. Where they like the photos and make jokes out of it. I joined the party by leaving comments on the photos, but later, they stumbled on my photos from back then, and found a picture of me when I was in high school sporting a "near" bald haircut which brought back memories of my fourth year high school which was one of the best years in my high school life.

It was more than 2 years ago when I sported the look, in fact this was the first and only time in my life so far I sported this haircut. Well, there were haircut inspections back in high school and they were very strict on imposing it among the students (even in college there are haircut inspections but these are a little lighter than in high school). For me, I sported the haircut more on my personal choice, rather than complying with the haircut rule. I don't like to sport longer hair for the fact that I don't like bangs falling down from my hair (I know most would say What? You can brush that and raise it, and add some gel or wax on.), but that's my touch on hair, besides.

I had some great memories with that hair starting from a birthday trip of my PEEP I attended together with my high school PEEPS, down at Eastwood City where we dined out at Yellow Cab, watched The Final Destination, went bowling, and chilled out the entire day. As well as the usual happenings down at school. It took about a couple of months for my hair to grow back from the time I sported the "near" bald look.

The fact it was the only time I sported this haircut, I wanted to sport that "near" bald cut again. However, they don't want me to sport the cut anymore for the reason that it doesn't fit in with my course in college and the fact I'm a slim man, and every time I talk about having that look, they will say "Wag! Hindi bagay sa 'yo." "No! It doesn't suit you."

Despite these facts that I can't sport my cut, I can't blame them for that. So from then on, I make sure I get the right haircut that I can be contented with. Besides, I have a good barber since the time they first brought me to a barber shop for haircuts and it costs me only P50 per cut (P20 for tips). Yes, he is a very good barber.

Well, it may be odd to say this but sporting a "near" bald look was one of the best moments of my life. It was a time when I freely chose what haircut I will sport. Though it was for only a short time and it made me look like a odd person. It was all worth it.

Photo ©Karl Carandang

"Don't judge a man by his hair, judge him by his heart."

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog Playoff Edition: DEFENDING CHAMPION MAVERICKS DETHRONED BY THE THUNDER IN A FIRST ROUND SWEEP WITH LOSS IN GAME 4 103-97.

 Serge Ibaka blocks Dirk Nowitzki

Photo ©NBA/Thunder.com

The Dallas Mavericks title defense came to an abrupt end as the Mavericks lose their first round series in a sweep against the team they beat in last year's Western Conference Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 4 of their series at the American Airlines Center 103-97. This is the 2nd straight season that the defending champions got swept in a playoff series. Ironically, it was the Mavericks who done it last year to the then back-to-back defending champions the Los Angeles Lakers during their 2nd round match-up. This is also the 2nd time a defending champion got swept in the first round in 5 years since the Miami Heat who won the title in 2006 suffer a first round sweep at the hands of the Chicago Bulls in 2007. The Mavericks are the first team to be knocked out of the 2012 NBA Playoffs in which nobody expected they will be so. For the Thunder, they advance to the 2nd round and will face the winner between the #3 Los Angeles Lakers and the #6 Denver Nuggets in which the Lakers lead the series 2-1.

James Harden off the bench led the Thunder with 29 points (15 of them in the 4th quarter including a clutch lay-up in the final moments of the game), 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals. Kevin Durant finished with a double-double 24 points and 11 rebounds with 4 assists and 2 blocks. Russell Westbrook added 12 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals. Derek Fisher scored 12. Serge Ibaka added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks.

2011 NBA Finals MVP Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks with 34 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Jason Kidd added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Jason Terry who regularly comes off the bench, started the game and finished with 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists. Ian Mahinmi off the bench added 10 points and 5 rebounds. Shawn Marion added 9 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks. Vince Carter added 8 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals.

In Orlando, the Indiana Pacers are now one win away from advancing to the 2nd round for the first time since 2005 as they defeat the Orlando Magic in Game 4 of their series at the Amway Center 101-99. Game 5 will be back in Indianapolis on May 9. David West led the Pacers with a double-double 26 points and 12 rebounds. Danny Granger added 21 points and 7 rebounds. Roy Hibbert also finished with a double-double 14 points and 11 rebounds with 3 blocks. Geroge Hill added 12 points, 5 assists and 2 steals. Darren Collison off the bench added 11 points, 9 assists and 2 steals. Jason Richardson led the Magic with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Glen Davis finished with a double-double 24 points and 11 rebounds. Jameer Nelson also finished with a double-double 12 points and 11 assists with 6 rebounds. 2012 Most Improved Player Ryan Anderson and Hedo Turkoglu each scored 11. J.J. Redick off the bench added 10 points and 7 assists.

In Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Clippers pull off another comeback victory as they beat the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 3 of their first round series at the Staples Center 87-86. Game 4 will be in Los Angeles on May 8. Chris Paul led the Clippers with a double-double 24 points and 11 assists with 4 rebounds and 4 steals. Blake Griffin added 17 points and 4 rebounds. Randy Foye added 16 points and 4 rebounds. Mo Williams scored 8 off the bench. Reggie Evans pulled down 11 rebounds. Rudy Gay led the Grizzlies with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Zach Randolph added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals. Marc Gasol finished with a double-double 11 points and 10 rebounds. Quincy Pondexter off the bench also scored 11.

In Salt Lake City, the San Antonio Spurs take a 3-0 lead in their first round series against the Utah Jazz at the EnergySolutions Arena 102-90. Tony Parker led the Spurs with 27 points and 6 assists. Tim Duncan added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks. Danny Green added 14 points and 6 rebounds. Stephen Jackson added 13 points and 2 blocks off the bench. Tiago Splitter added 10 points and 8 rebounds. Manu Ginobili dished out 10 assists with 6 points and 5 rebounds. Al Jefferson led the Jazz with a double-double 21 points and 11 rebounds. Devin Harris added 21 points and 5 assists. Derrick Favors also finished with a double-double 15 points and 11 rebounds with 2 steals and 2 blocks. Rookie Alec Burks scored 11 off the bench. Paul Millsap pulled down 11 rebounds with 9 points and 5 blocks

2012 NBA Playoffs Bracket (as of 14:27 PHT)

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Spurs vs #8 Jazz (Spurs lead series 3-0)
Game 4: May 8, 8:00 am PHT on Basketball TV

#4 Grizzlies vs #5 Clippers (Clippers lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 8, 10:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Lakers vs #6 Nuggets (Lakers lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 7, 9:30 am PHT on Studio 23 and Basketball TV

#2 Thunder vs #7 Mavericks
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER WINS SERIES 4-0

EASTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Bulls vs #8 76ers (76ers lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 7, 1:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#4 Celtics vs #5 Hawks (Celtics lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 7, 7:00 am PHT on Basketball TV

#3 Pacers vs #6 Magic (Pacers lead series 3-1)
Game 5: May 9, 7:00 am PHT on Basketball TV and NBA Premium TV

#2 Heat vs #7 Knicks (Heat lead series 3-0)

Game 4: May 8, 3:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV 

Surprised that the Mavericks are the first team to be knocked out of this year's playoffs and in a sweep.

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog Playoff Edition: 76ers and Celtics gain control of their series. Nuggets win Game 3 vs the Lakers.

Lou Williams lays it in over Taj Gibson

Photo ©NBA/Sixers.com

The 8th-seeded Philadelphia 76ers have taken the series lead with the Game 3 victory over the top seeded Chicago Bulls who suffers another loss without MVP Derrick Rose at the Wells Fargo Center 79-74. Game 4 will be in Philadelphia on May 7.

Spencer Hawes led the 76ers with 21 points and 9 rebounds and the only three pointer made by the 76ers in the game. Jrue Holiday added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Evan Turner added 16 points and 9 rebounds. Lou Williams scored 14 off the bench.

Carlos Boozer led the Bulls with a double-double 18 points and 10 rebounds. Richard Hamilton added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Joakim Noah added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks but would leave early in the 4th quarter with a bad ankle. John Lucas III off the bench scored 12.

In Boston, the Boston Celtics have also taken the series lead with the Game 3 victory in overtime against the Atlanta Hawks at the TD Garden 90-84. Game 4 will be in Boston on May 7. Paul Pierce led the Celtics with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Kevin Garnett finished with a double-double 20 points and 13 rebounds with 4 blocks. Rajon Rondo who came back from a one-game suspension finished with a triple-double 17 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists with 4 steals. Ray Allen who returns from injury added 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals coming off the bench. The Hawks who played without Josh Smith due to a knee injury were led by Joe Johnson with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals. Jeff Teague added 23 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 blocks. Tracy McGrady off the bench added 12 points and 9 rebounds. Marvin Williams pulled down 11 rebounds.

In Denver, the Denver Nuggets score their first win of their first round series against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Pepsi Center 99-84. Game 4 will be in Denver on May 7. Ty Lawson led the Nuggets with 25 points, 4 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 steals. JaVale McGee off the bench finished with a double-double 16 points and 15 rebounds with 3 blocks and 2 steals. Danilo Gallinari and Andre Miller each scored 13. Gallinari also added 6 rebounds. Miller also added 6 assists and 5 rebounds. Rookie Kenneth Faried also finished with a double-double 12 points and 15 rebounds. Arron Afflalo added 10 points and 2 steals. Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Andrew Bynum finished with a double-double 18 points and 12 rebounds with 2 blocks. Pau Gasol added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks. Ramon Sessions added 15 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists.

2012 NBA Playoffs Bracket (as of 15:07 PHT)

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Spurs vs #8 Jazz (Spurs lead series 2-0)

Game 3: May 6, 10:00 am PHT on Studio 23 and NBA Premium TV

#4 Grizzlies vs #5 Clippers (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: May 6, 4:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Lakers vs #6 Nuggets (Lakers lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 7, 9:30 am PHT on Studio 23 and Basketball TV

#2 Thunder vs #7 Mavericks (Thunder lead series 3-0)
Game 4: May 6, 7:30 am PHT on Studio 23

EASTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Bulls vs #8 76ers (76ers lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 7, 1:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#4 Celtics vs #5 Hawks (Celtics lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 7, 7:00 am PHT on Basketball TV

#3 Pacers vs # 6 Magic (Pacers lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 6, 2:00 am PHT on Basketball TV

#2 Heat vs #7 Knicks (Heat lead series 3-0)
Game 4: May 7, 3:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

K-Smoove

Once May came through, the rain fell from the sky.

Well, my favorite month of the year April came to an end four days ago with my birthday. The sun was still shining on the last day of April, then the month of May came along and then out of the blue, the rain started to fall from the sky. Most would say rain will come later this month, but they never expected it to be as early in the month as it is right now. Unexpected in a sense there was a hailstorm in a area near my place that lasted for 10 minutes today. Every afternoon so far this month, the rain fell from the sky and showers the land. A sunny morning turns into a rainy afternoon in a snap. I can't believe it's happening as it is right now.

Yes, I've been hanging out from the start of vacation together with my family, as well as to all my PEEPS whether these are my friends from high school or college. It was time well spent with each and every one of them.

Well, we're still in the summer months, but that is also coming to an end. In one month, we're heading back to the grind of classes at the same time the rain will get heavier by the day. So it's time for me to make my summer vacation count. Still, I miss a lot of PEEPS from school, some I miss so bad that I always keep talking about them. I wish I can talk to them right this moment. But for some reason, I lose contact with them. I hope they are safe, having a good vacation, and I can't wait to see them again once classes resume. But hey, I don't want to talk more about the return to classes. I mean, sure it's getting close, but I want to make the best out of this vacation.

Summer vacation is winding down. When the skies turn dark day after day, you know the rain will fall from the sky.

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog Playoff Edition: Thunder, one win away from knocking off the defending champion Mavericks with Game 3 win in Dallas. Heat go up 3-0 over the Knicks.

Russell Westbrook passes thru the Mavericks defense

Photo ©NBA/Thunder.com

The Oklahoma City Thunder are now one win away from advancing to the second round as they defeat the defending champions the Dallas Mavericks in Game 3 of their first round series at the American Airlines Center 95-79. Game 4 will be in Dallas on May 6. If the Mavericks lose in Game 4, it will be the 2nd straight season that the defending champions be swept in a playoff series. Ironically, it was the Mavericks who dealt that blow last year, doing it in the second round over the Los Angeles Lakers.

Kevin Durant led the Thunder with 31 points, 3 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals. Russell Westbrook added 20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals. Serge Ibaka finished with a double-double 10 points and 11 rebounds with 4 blocks. James Harden and Derek Fisher both off the bench each scored 10. Harden also added 3 steals. Daequan Cook scored 9.

Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Jason Kidd added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Jason Terry added 11 points and 6 assists off the bench. Shawn Marion pulled down 10 rebounds with 6 points and 2 blocks. Delonte West scored 9. Vince Carter scored 7.

In New York City, the Miami Heat are also one win away from knocking off the New York Knicks in their first round series with the Game 3 victory at Madison Square Garden 87-70. LeBron James led the Heat 32 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals. Dwayne Wade added 20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. Mario Chalmers added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Chris Bosh added 9 points and 10 rebounds. Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with 22 points and 8 rebounds. J.R. Smith off the bench added 12 points and 2 steals. Recently crowned Defensive Player of the Year Tyson Chandler finished with a double-double 10 points and 15 rebounds with 2 steals and 2 blocks. Landry Fields scored 9.

2012 NBA Playoffs Bracket (as of 14:38 PHT)

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Spurs vs #8 Jazz (Spurs lead series 2-0)
Game 3: May 6, 10:00 am PHT on Studio 23 and NBA Premium TV

#4 Grizzlies vs #5 Clippers (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: May 6, 4:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Lakers vs #6 Nuggets (Lakers lead series 2-0)
Game 3: May 5, 10:30 am PHT on ESPN

#2 Thunder vs #7 Mavericks (Thunder lead series 3-0)
Game 4: May 6, 7:30 am PHT on Studio 23

EASTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Bulls vs #8 76ers (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: May 5, 8:00 am PHT on Studio 23 and NBA Premium TV

#4 Celtics vs #5 Hawks (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: May 5, 7:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Pacers vs #6 Magic (Pacers lead series 2-1)
Game 4: May 6, 2:00 am PHT on Basketball TV

#2 Heat vs #7 Knicks (Heat lead series 3-0)
Game 4: May 7, 3:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog Playoff Edition: Grzzlies tie their series vs the Clippers. Pacers take Game 3 in Orlando. Spurs put Jazz in 0-2 hole.

Rudy Gay with a jumper over Nick Young

Photo ©NBA/Grizzlies.com

The Memphis Grizzlies bounce back after a devastating loss in Game 1 in which they led by as many as 27 to take Game 2 of their first round series against the Los Angeles Clippers at the FedExForum 105-98. The series shifts to Los Angeles for Game 3 on May 6.

Rudy Gay led the Grizzlies with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals. O.J. Mayo off the bench added 20 points, 4 rebounds and 2 steals. Mike Conley added 19 points and 6 assists. Zach Randolph added 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals. Marreese Speights added 11 points and 5 rebounds. Tony Allen added 10 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 blocks. Marc Gasol added 8 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks.

Chris Paul led the Clippers with 29 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. Blake Griffin added 22 points, 9 rebounds and 2 steals. Mo Williams and Nick Young both off the bench each scored 11. Bobby Simmons scored 9. DeAndre Jordan added 6 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks.

In San Antonio, the San Antonio Spurs take a commanding 2-0 lead in their first round series against the Utah Jazz at the AT&T Center 114-83. The series shifts to Salt Lake City for Game 3 on May 6. Tony Parker led the Spurs with 18 points and 9 assists. Rookie Kawhi Leonard added 17 points and 2 steals. Danny Green added 13 points and 3 blocks. Tim Duncan finished with a double-double 12 points and 13 rebounds. Boris Diaw and Gary Neal off the bench each scored 11. DeJuan Blair added 10 points and 7 rebounds off the bench. Al Jefferson and Josh Howard led the Jazz with each scoring 10 points. Paul Millsap, Derrick Favors and rookie Alec Burks each scored 9.  Gordon Hayward and rookie Enes Kanter each scored 8.

In Orlando, the Indiana Pacers have taken a 2-1 lead in their first round series against the Orlando Magic at the Amway Center 97-74. Danny Granger led the Pacers with 26 points, 9 rebounds and 2 steals. Roy Hibbert finished with a double-double 18 points and 10 rebounds with 3 blocks. George Hill scored 15. Paul George added 12 points and 7 rebounds. Darren Collison off the bench scored 10. Glen Davis led the Magic with 22 points. J.J. Redick scored 13 off the bench. Jameer Nelson added 10 points and 5 assists. Ryan Anderson scored 7.

2012 NBA Playoffs Bracket (as of 14:48 PHT) 

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Spurs vs #8 Jazz (Spurs lead series 2-0)
Game 3: May 6, 10:00 am PHT on Studio 23 and NBA Premium TV

#4 Grizzlies vs # 5 Clippers (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: May 6, 4:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Lakers vs #6 Nuggets (Lakers lead series 2-0)
Game 3: May 5, 10:30 am PHT on ESPN

#2 Thunder vs #7 Mavericks (Thunder lead series 2-0)
Game 3: May 4, 9:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

EASTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Bulls vs # 8 76ers (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: May 5, 8:00 am PHT on Studio 23 and NBA Premium TV

#4 Celtics vs #5 Hawks (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: May 5, 7:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Pacers vs #6 Magic (Pacers lead series 2-1)

Game 4: May 6, 2:00 am PHT on Basketball TV

#2 Heat vs #7 Knicks (Heat lead series 2-0)
Game 3: May 4, 7:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog Playoff Edition: 76ers and Celtics equalize their series. Lakers take 2-0 lead.

Elton Brand with the dunk

Photo ©NBA/Sixers.com

The Philadelphia 76ers have even up their first round series with a huge win in Game 2 against the Chicago Bulls who lost reining MVP Derrick Rose in Game 1 to a torn ACL on his left knee at the United Center 109-92. The series shifts to Philadelphia for Game 3 on May 5.

The 76ers backcourt led the way with Jrue Holiday scoring 26 points with 6 assists. Lou Williams off the bench added 20 points, 6 assists and 2 steals. Chicago native Evan Turner added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Elton Brand added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks. Andre Iguodala added 11 points and 5 rebounds. Rookie Lavoy Allen also scored 11 points with 9 rebounds and 2 blocks.

Joakim Noah led the Bulls with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. John Lucas III off the bench added 15 points and 4 assists. C.J. Watson scored 12. Rip Hamilton added 10 points and 5 assists. Carlos Boozer added 9 points and 5 rebounds.

 Paul Pierce takes a jumper against the Hawks defense.

Photo ©NBA/Celtics.com

The Boston Celtics without their all-star backcourt of Rajon Rondo who was out with a one game suspension and Ray Allen who is still recovering from injury came up with a Game 2 victory over the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena 87-80. The series shifts to Boston on May 5 and we will see the return of Rondo and possibly Allen to the lineup.

The captain Paul Pierce led the Celtics with another classic playoff performance with a double-double 36 points and 14 rebounds playing in 44 minutes. Kevin Garnett also finished with a double-double 15 points and 12 rebounds. Avery Bradley added 14 points, 3 steals and 3 blocks. Brandon Bass added 8 points and 6 rebounds.

Joe Johnson led the Hawks with 22 points, 5 assists and 3 steals. Jeff Teague added 18 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Josh Smith finished with a double-double 16 points and 12 rebounds with 5 assists and 2 blocks, but would have to leave the game in the 4th quarter with a sore knee.


In Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Lakers take a 2-0 lead in their first round series against the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center 104-100. The series shifts to Denver for Game 3 on May 5. Kobe Bryant once again led the Lakers with 38 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals. Andrew Bynum added 27 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks. Ramon Sessions added 14 points, 4 assists and 2 steals. Pau Gasol finished with a double-double 13 points and 10 rebounds with 5 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Ty Lawson led the Nuggets with 25 points and 7 assists. Rookie Kenneth Faried finished with a double-double 14 points and 10 rebounds. Danilo Gallinari added 13 points and 8 rebounds. Corey Brewer off the bench also scored 13 points with 3 steals. Arron Afflalo and Al Harrington each scored 11. 

2012 NBA Playoffs Bracket (as of 13:55 PHT)

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Spurs vs #8 Jazz (Spurs lead series 1-0)

Game 2: May 3, 7:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#4 Grizzlies vs # 5 Clippers (Clippers lead series 1-0)

Game 2: May 3, 9:30 am PHT on ESPN

#3 Lakers vs #6 Nuggets (Lakers lead series 2-0)

Game 3: May 5, 10:30 am PHT on ESPN

#2 Thunder vs #7 Mavericks (Thunder lead series 2-0)

Game 3: May 4, 9:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

EASTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Bulls vs # 8 76ers (Series tied 1-1)

Game 3: May 5, 8:00 am PHT on Studio 23 and NBA Premium TV

#4 Celtics vs #5 Hawks (Series tied 1-1)

Game 3: May 5, 7:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#3 Pacers vs #6 Magic (Series tied 1-1)

Game 3: May 3, 7:30 am PHT on Basketball TV and NBA Premium TV

#2 Heat vs #7 Knicks (Heat lead series 2-0)

Game 3: May 4, 7:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog Playoff Edition: Heat take 2-0 lead over the Knicks 104-94. Pacers equalize vs the Magic 93-78. Thunder win another thriller vs the Mavericks 102-99.

Dwayne Wade drives through the Knicks defense

Photo ©NBA/Heat.com

The Miami Heat take a 2-0 lead as they win Game 2 of their first round series against the New York Knicks at the American Airlines Arena 104-94. The series shifts to New York for Game 3 on May 4.

Miami's Big 3 combine for 65 points led by Dwayne Wade led the Heat with 25 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals. Chris Bosh added 21 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. LeBron James added 19 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists and 2 steals. Mario Chalmers added 13 points and 6 rebounds. Shane Battier and Mike Miller off the bench each scored 11. 

Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with 30 points and 9 rebounds. Amar'e Stoudemire added 18 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals. Tyson Chandler and J.R. Smith off the bench scored 13. Chandler added 7 rebounds and Smith added 5 assists. Baron Davis added 12 points and 6 assists.

In Indianapolis, the Indiana Pacers bounce back and tie their first round series with the win Game 2 of their first round series against the Orlando Magic at Bankers Life Fieldhous 93-78. The series shifts to Orlando for Game 3 on May 3. David West led the Pacers with a double-double 18 points and 11 rebounds with 2 steals and 2 blocks. Danny Granger also scored 18 points with 7 rebounds. George Hill also finished with 18 points and 4 rebounds. Paul George added 17 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals. Leandro Barbosa scored 10 off the bench. Glen Davis led the Magic with a double-double 18 points and 10 rebounds. J.J. Redick scored 13 off the bench. Jameer Nelson scored 12. Ryan Anderson added 11 points and 8 rebounds. Hedo Turkoglu scored 10.

In Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City Thunder win another thriller in Game 2 of their first round series against the defending champion Dallas Mavericks at the Chesapeake Energy Arena 102-99. The series shifts to Dallas for Game 3 on May 4. Russell Westbrook led the Thunder with 29 points. Kevin Durant finished with a double-double 26 points and 10 rebounds with 2 steals. James Harden off the bench added 15 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals. Kendrick Perkins added 13 points and 6 rebounds. Derek Fisher scored 11. Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks with 31 points and 6 rebounds. Shawn Marion added 15 points and 8 rebounds. Jason Terry off the bench and Delonte West each scored 13. Jason Kidd added 10 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 steals.

2012 NBA Playoffs Bracket (as of 13:39 PHT)

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Spurs vs #8 Jazz (Spurs lead series 1-0)
Game 2: May 3, 7:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#4 Grizzlies vs # 5 Clippers (Clippers lead series 1-0)
Game 2: May 3, 9:30 am PHT on ESPN

#3 Lakers vs #6 Nuggets (Lakers lead series 1-0)
Game 2: May 2, 10:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#2 Thunder vs #7 Mavericks (Thunder lead series 2-0)
Game 3: May 4, 9:30 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

EASTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Bulls vs # 8 76ers (Bulls lead series 1-0)

Game 2: May 2, 8:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

#4 Celtics vs #5 Hawks (Hawks lead series 1-0)

Game 2: May 2, 7:30 am PHT on Basketball TV and NBA Premium TV

#3 Pacers vs #6 Magic (Series tied 1-1)

Game 3: May 3, 7:30 am PHT on Basketball TV and NBA Premium TV

#2 Heat vs #7 Knicks (Heat lead series 2-0)

Game 3: May 4, 7:00 am PHT on NBA Premium TV

K-Smoove