The Cavaliers defeated the Pistons 98-82 in game 6 in Cleveland to clinch the franchise's first ever berth in the NBA Finals. While LeBron James and Zydrunas Ilgauskas had solid games, they were supported by Daniel Gibson's energetic 31 points. Mike Brown continued to utilize his bench, giving nine players at least 10 minutes of play.
Brown may have an advantage heading into the Championship series, having served as an assistant to Gregg Popovich during the current successful Spurs era.
The Spurs also won in convincing fashion, routing the Jazz 109-84 in game 5 in San Antonio. The core remains intact, with Duncan, Ginobili, and Parker serving as the big three, Bowen standing in as the defensive specialist, and, among others, Horry, Barry, and Finley coming off the bench as veteran sharpshooters.
Early predictions by basketball analysts and fans have the Spurs winning in five or six. However, fate may say otherwise. The Cavaliers, including developing superstar James, are finally realizing their potential as a top NBA team.
Brown may have an advantage heading into the Championship series, having served as an assistant to Gregg Popovich during the current successful Spurs era.
The Spurs also won in convincing fashion, routing the Jazz 109-84 in game 5 in San Antonio. The core remains intact, with Duncan, Ginobili, and Parker serving as the big three, Bowen standing in as the defensive specialist, and, among others, Horry, Barry, and Finley coming off the bench as veteran sharpshooters.
Early predictions by basketball analysts and fans have the Spurs winning in five or six. However, fate may say otherwise. The Cavaliers, including developing superstar James, are finally realizing their potential as a top NBA team.