NBA Daily Blog: Spurs secure top seed out West with win over the Trail Blazers at home 124-89. 76ers secure final playoff berth out East with win over the Nets in their final game in New Jersey 105-87.

Tim Duncan gets the rebound.

Photo ©NBA/Spurs.com

The San Antonio Spurs lock up the top seed in the Western Conference for the 2nd consecutive  year with a victory over the Portland Trail Blazers at the AT&T Center 124-89. The Spurs improve to 48-16 with a 2 game advantage over the #2 seed Oklahoma City Thunder. While the Trail Blazers drop to 28-37 in 11th place out West.

The Spurs were led by Tim Duncan and Danny Green with both scoring 18 points each. Duncan also added 8 rebounds and 4 blocks. Tony Parker added 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Stephen Jackson and Gary Neal both off the bench each scored 12 points. Jackson added 5 steals and 2 blocks. James Anderson scored 11.

The Trail Blazers were led by Wesley Matthews with 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 steals. J.J. Hickson finished with a double-double 14 points and 10 rebounds with 2 blocks. Raymond Felton added 13 points, 7 assists and 2 steals. Rookie Nolan Smith off the bench added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Jrue Holday shoots over Sundiata Gaines

Photo ©NBA/Sixers.com

The Philadelphia 76ers secure the final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference with a victory over the New Jersey Nets who played their final game in New Jersey after 35 seasons at the Prudential Center as the Nets will move to Brooklyn, New York starting next season 105-87. With the win, the 76ers improve to 34-30 with a 3 game advantage over the Milwaukee Bucks whom with the 76ers win have been knocked out of playoff contention. While the Nets drop to 22-43 in 11th place out East.

The 76ers were led by Elton Brand, Jrue Holiday and Thaddeus Young with each scoring 15 points. Brand added 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. Holiday added 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Andre Iguodala added 14 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Evan Turner added 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists off the bench. Lou Williams scored 11.

The Nets were led by rookie MarShon Brooks with 18 points, 4 assists and 2 steals. Kris Humphries finished with a double-double 16 points and 12 rebounds. Gerald Wallace added 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Johan Petro and Armon Johnson off the bench each scored 10.

In Washington, DC, the Washington Wizards defeat the Charlotte Bobcats who have now lost their 21st consecutive game at the Verizon Center 101-73. Nene off the bench led the Wizards with 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks. John Wall finished with a double-double 16 points and 14 assists with 5 rebounds. Rookie Jan Vesely also scored 16 points with 6 rebounds and 4 steals. Kevin Seraphin added 12 points and 8 rebounds. Gerald Henderson led the Bobcats with 19 points and 5 rebounds. D.J. Augustin added 15 points and 6 assists.

In Indianapolis, the Indiana Pacers pick up the win in a Central Division showdown over the Detroit Pistons at Bankers Life Fieldhouse 103-97. The Pacers who played without their stars Danny Granger and Roy Hibbert were led by Paul George with a double-double 27 points and 10 rebounds with 3 steals. David West added 20 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Leandro Barbosa and Tyler Hansbrough both off the bench each scored 13. Barbosa also added 9 rebounds and 4 steals. Hansbrough added 8 rebounds. Jeff Pendergraph added 10 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks. Greg Monroe led the Pistons with a double-double 18 points and 12 rebounds. Rookie Brandon Knight scored 16. Tayshaun Prince scored 14. Charlie Villanueva off the bench scored 13. Austin Daye scored 11. Jason Maxiell added 10 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks.

In Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Bucks get the win over the Toronto Raptors at the Bradley Centeer 92-86. However, with the 76ers winning their game against the Nets in Newark. The Bucks have been knocked out of playoff contention in the Eastern Conference. Brandon Jennings led the Bucks with 25 points, 5 assists and 3 steals. Ersan Ilyasova finished with a double-double 19 points and 15 rebounds. Monta Ellis added 17 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists with 4 steals. Ekpe Udoh added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks off the bench. Mike Dunleavy Jr. added 10 points and 7 rebounds.

In Memphis, the Memphis Grizzlies win over the Cleveland Cavaliers at the FedExForum 109-101. Marreese Speights led the Grizzlies with a double-double 17 points and 10 rebounds. Marc Gasol also scored 17 points with 4 rebounds and 2 blocks. Rudy Gay added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. O.J. Mayo added 14 points and 5 assists off the bench. Tony Allen added 13 points, 8 rebounds and 8 steals. Mike Conley scored 12. Rookie Kyrie Irving led the Cavaliers with 25 points and 3 steals. Antawn Jamison added 17 points and 9 rebounds. Another rookie Tristan Thompson added 12 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks. Manny Harris off the bench scored 11.

STANDINGS AS OF 4/24/12 (12:16 PHT)

WEST:
1. Spurs 48-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 46-18, 3. Lakers (x) 41-24, 4. Clippers (x) 40-24, 5. Grizzlies (x) 40-25, 6. Nuggets (x) 36-28, 7. Mavericks (x) 36-29, 8. Jazz 34-30, 9. Suns 33-31, 10. Rockets (o) 33-32, 11. Trail Blazers (o) 28-37, 12. Timberwolves (o) 26-39, 13. Warriors (o) 23-41, 14. Kings (o) 21-43, 15. Hornets (o) 20-44

EAST:
1. Bulls (c) 48-16, 2. Heat (se) 46-18, 3. Pacers (x) 42-23, 4. Celtics (a) 37-27, 5. Hawks (x) 38-26, 6. Magic (x) 36-28, 7. Knicks (x) 34-30, 8. 76ers (x) 34-30, 9. Bucks (o) 31-33, 10. Pistons (o) 24-41, 11. Nets (o) 22-43, 12. Raptors (o) 22-43, 13. Cavaliers (o) 21-43, 14. Wizards (o) 18-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-57

 

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog: Rockets knocked out of playoff contention with the loss to the Heat at South Beach 88-97

 LeBron James backs down on Chandler Parsons

Photo ©NBA/Rockets.com

Heartbreaking to say the least. The Houston Rockets bow out of playoff contention for the 3rd straight year after losing a tough game against the Miami Heat at the American Airlines Arena 88-97. The Rockets were up 79-73 with 6 minutes left in the 4th, but the Heat came back and outscored the Rockets 24-9 in the final moments of the 4th. With the loss, the Rockets drop to 33-32, 1.5 games behind the 8th seeded Utah Jazz. While the Heat will most likely finish 2nd in the East with a record of 46-18.

The Rockets were led by rookie Chandler Parsons who scored a career high 23 points with 6 rebounds and 4 steals. Goran Dragic scored 16. Courtney Lee added 14 points and 2 steals. Patrick Patterson off the bench also scored 14 points with 7 rebounds. Luis Scola scored 12.

The Heat who played without Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh were led by LeBron James with 32 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 blocks. Norris Cole scored 16. Mike Miller off the bench and Joel Anthony each scored 11. Udonis Haslem pulled down 11 rebounds with 3 blocks.

In Atlanta, the New York Knicks win a thriller over the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena 113-112. Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with a double-double 39 points and 10 rebounds with 2 steals. Amar’e Stoudemire also finished with a double-double 22 points and 12 rebounds. Landry Fields scored 18. Baron Davis also finished with a double-double 13 points and 10 assists. Iman Shumpert scored 11. Marvin Williams led the Hawks with a double-double 29 points and 11 rebounds with 3 blocks. Jeff Teague added 23 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. Joe Johnson scored 22. Josh Smith added 14 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks. Jannero Pargo off the bench scored 12.

In Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Lakers win in a double overtime thriller over the Oklahoma City Thunder at Staples Center 114-106. Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 26 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Pau Gasol almost came up with a triple double 20 points, 14 rebounds and 9 assists. Jordan Hill off the bench finished with a triple double 14 points, 15 rebounds and 3 blocks. Steve Blake added 13 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Andrew Bynum added 10 points, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks. Kevin Durant led the Thunder with 35 points and 8 rebounds. Serge Ibaka finished with a double-double 18 points and 14 rebounds with 7 blocks. Russell Westbrook also finished with a double-double 14 points and 10 assists. Kendrick Perkins pulled down 10 rebounds with 2 blocks. Thabo Sefolosha also pulled down 10 rebounds with 3 steals. Metta World Peace was ejected in the 2nd quarter after elbowing James Harden who suffered from a concussion and took him out of the rest of the game. World Peace finished with 12 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals. Harden finished with 14 points and 3 rebounds.

In Charlotte, the Sacramento Kings hand the Charlotte Bobcats their 20th straight defeat with a blowout victory at the Time Warner Cable Arena 114-88. DeMarcus Cousins led the Kings with a double-double 29 points and 10 rebounds with 2 blocks. Tyreke Evans added 22 points and 2 steals. Jason Thompson also finished with a double-double 14 points and 11 rebounds with 7 assists and 5 steals. Rookie Jimmer Fredette off the bench scored 11. Another rookie Isaiah Thomas scored 10. Rookie Kemba Walker led the Bobcats with a double-double 13 points and 11 assists with 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. Byron Mullens also scored 13 points with 8 rebounds. Derrick Brown also scored 13 points with 7 rebounds. Tyrus Thomas scored 10 off the bench.

In Detroit, the Detroit Pistons win a thriller over the Toronto Raptors at The Palace of Auburn Hills 76-73. Rookie Brandon Knight and Ben Gordon off the bench led the Pistons with each scoring 19 points. Tayshaun Prince scored 9. Greg Monroe pulled down 17 rebounds with 8 points and 2 steals. DeMar DeRozan led the Raptors with 16 points and 2 steals. Linas Kleiza scored 12 off the bench. Gary Forbes scored 10.

In San Antonio, the San Antonio Spurs keep their hold on the top seed out West with a victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers at the AT&T Center 114-98. The Spurs who played without Tim Duncan were led by Manu Ginobili with 20 points off the bench. Stephen Jackson added 17 points and 5 rebounds. DeJuan Blair added 15 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals. Danny Green scored 14. Rookie Kawhi Leonard added 11 points with 7 rebounds. Tony Parker dished out 9 assists with 6 points. Antawn Jamison led the Cavaliers with 21 points. Rookie Kyrie Irving added 19 points and 3 steals. Manny Harris scored 14. Alonzo Gee scored 10 off the bench. Another rookie Tristan Thompson added 9 points and 9 rebounds.

In Minneapolis, the Golden State Warriors come from behind to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center 93-88. Rookie Charles Jenkins led the Warriors with 24 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. Brandon Rush added 18 points and 9 rebounds off the bench. Another rookie Klay Thompson added 17 points and 2 blocks. Dominic McGuire added 12 points and 7 rebounds. Richard Jefferson added 14 points and 6 rebounds. Nikola Pekovic led the Timberwolves with a double-double 19 points and 16 rebounds. Martell Webster added 18 points and 5 rebounds. J.J. Barea also finished with a double-double 14 points and 12 assists. Anthony Randolph also scored 14 points with 7 rebounds and 5 blocks.

In Denver, the Denver Nuggets move up into 6th place in the Western Conference with a blowout win over the Orlando Magic at the Pepsi Center 101-74. JaVale McGee off the bench and Danilo Gallinari led the Nuggets with each scoring 17 points. McGee also added 8 rebounds and 3 blocks. Gallinari added 7 rebounds. Arron Afflalo scored 15. Ty Lawson finished with a double-double 13 points and 10 assists. Rookie Kenneth Faried also finished with a double-double 11 points and 10 rebounds. Andre Miller dished out 11 assists with 6 points. Ryan Anderson led the Magic with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Glen Davis scored 14. Jason Richardson and J.J. Redick each scored 9.

In Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Clippers keep their hopes of winning the Pacific Division title alive with a victory over the New Orleans Hornets at Staples Center 107-98. Former Hornets guard Chris Paul led the Clippers with a near triple-double 33 points, 13 assists and 8 steals. Randy Foye scored 24. Blake Griffin finished with a double-double 21 points and 15 rebounds. Mo Williams scored 9. DeAndre Jordan blocked 3 shots. Former Clippers guard Eric Gordon led the Hornets with 17 points and 5 assists. Another former Clipper Al-Farouq Aminu added 14 points and 8 rebounds. Jason Smith added 13 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks. Greivis Vasquez added 12 points and 7 assists. Lance Thomas added 10 points and 6 rebounds.

STANDINGS AS OF 4/23/12 (12:29 PHT)
WEST:
1. Spurs (sw) 47-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 46-18, 3. Lakers (x) 41-24, 4. Clippers (x) 40-24, 5. Grizzlies (x) 39-25, 6. Nuggets (x) 36-28, 7. Mavericks (x) 36-29, 8. Jazz 34-30, 9. Suns 33-31, 10. Rockets (o) 33-32, 11. Trail Blazers (o) 28-36, 12. Timberwolves (o) 26-39, 13. Warriors (o) 23-41, 14. Kings (o) 21-43, 15. Hornets (o) 20-44

EAST:
1. Bulls (c) 48-16, 2. Heat (se) 46-18, 3. Pacers (x) 41-23, 4. Celtics (a) 37-27, 5. Hawks (x) 38-26, 6. Magic (x) 36-28, 7. Knicks (x) 34-30, 8. 76ers 33-30, 9. Bucks 30-33, 10. Pistons (o) 24-40, 11. Nets (o) 22-42, 12. Raptors (o) 22-42, 13. Cavaliers (o) 21-42, 14. Wizards (o) 17-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-56

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog: Rockets keep playoff hopes alive with a win over the Warriors at home 99-96.

Courtney Lee drives on Klay Thompson

Photo NBA/©Rockets.com

The Houston Rockets keep their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling victory over the Golden State Warriors at Toyota Center 99-96. With the win, the Rockets snap their 6 game losing streak and improve to 33-31, currently tied with the Phoenix Suns and a full game behind the 8th seeded Utah Jazz. While the Warriors drop to 22-41, losing their 8th consecutive game.

The Rockets were led by Courtney Lee with 20 points. Goran Dragic added 18 points, 7 assists and 3 steals. Luis Scola added 13 points and 5 rebounds. Chase Budinger scored 11 off the bench. Patrick Patterson scored 10. Marcus Camby pulled down 9 rebounds.

The Warriors were led by rookie Klay Thompson with 24 points. Brandon Rush added 19 points and 7 rebounds off the bench. Another rookie Charles Jenkins added 16 points and 8 assists.

In Phoenix, the Denver Nuggets clinch a playoff berth with a win over the Phoenix Suns who in turn suffer a blow to their playoff chances at the US Airways Center 118-107. Ty Lawson led the Nuggets with a double-double 29 points and 10 assists. Arron Afflalo added 19 points and 2 steals. Rookie Kenneth Faried also finished with a double-double 18 points and 14 rebounds with 3 blocks. Danilo Gallinari added 13 points and 2 steals. JaVale McGee scored 11 off the bench. Corey Brewer scored 10. Shannon Brown led the Suns with 28 points, 6 rebounds and 3 steals. Marcin Gortat finished with a double-double 18 points and 11 rebounds with 3 blocks. Sebastian Telfair scored 15 off the bench. Steve Nash dished out 13 assists with 8 points.

In Indianapolis, the Philadelphia 76ers inch closer to securing a playoff berth with a thrilling victory over the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse 109-106. Elton Brand led the 76ers with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Lou Williams off the bench added 19 points, 2 steals and 3 blocks. Jrue Holiday added 17 points, 7 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Andre Iguodala added 16 points and 2 blocks. Thaddeus Young added 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. David West led the Pacers with a double-double 32 points and 12 rebounds. Tyler Hansbrough off the bench scored 17. Paul George added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals. Roy Hibbert added 11 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks. George Hill scored 10. Danny Granger pulled down 11 rebounds and only scored 4 points.

In Miami, the Washington Wizards pull off a stunner with Nene’s layup with only 0.5 seconds remaining as they beat the Miami Heat who suffer a tough blow to their chances of finishing on top of the Eastern Conference at the American Airlines Arena 86-84. Cartier Martin off the bench led the Wizards with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Kevin Seraphin scored 17. John Wall finished with a double-double 13 points and 13 assists with 4 steals. Nene scored 11. The Heat who were playing without LeBron James and Chris Bosh to start the game for rest purposes and Dwayne Wade suffering from a dislocated index finger early into the 1st quarter were led by Mike Miller who finished with a double-double 16 points and 10 rebounds. Mario Chalmers also scored 16 points with 6 assists and 2 steals. Dexter Pittman scored 12. Rookie Norris Cole scored 11. Udonis Haslem pulled down 15 rebounds with 6 points.

In Chicago, the Chicago Bulls inch closer to securing homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs with a victory over the defending champions Dallas Mavericks at the United Center 93-83. Luol Deng led the Bulls with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Richard Hamilton scored 19. Carlos Boozer finished with a double-double 12 points and 10 rebounds. Reining MVP Derrick Rose who came back to the floor after injuries sideline him the past few days added 11 points and 8 assists. Kyle Korver also scored 11 off the bench. Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Rodrigue Beaubois who started in place of Jason Kidd who did not play today added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Vince Carter scored 15. Delonte West scored 13.


In Memphis, the Memphis Grizzlies are still in contention for a higher seed out West with a 4 point victory over the Portland Trail Blazers at the FedExForum 93-89. Rudy Gay led the Grizzlies with 21 points and 6 rebounds. O.J. Mayo scored 14 off the bench. Marreese Speights finished with a double-double 13 points and 11 rebounds. Marc Gasol and Dante Cunningham each scored 12. J.J. Hickson led the Trail Blazers with a double-double 23 points and 13 rebounds. Jamal Crawford scored 21 off the bench. Wesley Matthews added 16 points and 7 rebounds. Luke Babbitt added 10 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals.


In Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Bucks keep their playoff hopes alive with a victory over the New Jersey Nets at the Bradley Center 106-95. Brandon Jennings led the Bucks with 30 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Ersan Ilyasova finished with a double-double 17 points and 17 rebounds with 3 steals and 2 blocks. Drew Gooden added 16 points and 8 rebounds. Monta Ellis and Shaun Livingston each scored 12. Gerald Wallace led the Nets with a double-double 18 points and 11 rebounds. Rookie MarShon Brooks scored 17. Gerald Green scored 16 off the bench. Kris Humphries added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals.


In Salt Lake City, the Utah Jazz maintain their hold on the final playoff seed out West with a overtime victory against the Orlando Magic at EnergySolutions Arena 117-107. Al Jefferson led the Jazz with a double-double 21 points and 10 rebounds with 3 blocks. Devin Harris also scored 21 points with 7 assists. Paul Millsap added 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals. Derrick Favors off the bench also finished with a double-double 16 points and 11 rebounds with 2 steals. Gordon Hayward scored 12. Jameer Nelson led the Magic with a double-double 23 points and 11 assists. Jason Richardson added 21 points and 7 rebounds. Ryan Anderson  also scored 21 points with 5 rebounds. Glen Davis also finished with a double-double 17 points and 13 rebounds with 4 steals. J.J. Redick scored 15.

STANDINGS AS OF 4/22/12 (15:04 PHT)
WEST:
1. Spurs (sw) 46-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 46-17, 3. Lakers (x) 40-24, 4. Clippers (x) 39-24, 5. Grizzlies (x) 39-25, 6. Nuggets (x) 35-28, 7. Mavericks (x) 36-29, 8. Jazz 34-30, 9. Suns 33-31, 10. Rockets 33-31, 11. Trail Blazers (o) 28-36, 12. Timberwolves (o) 26-38, 13. Warriors (o) 22-41, 14. Kings (o) 20-43, 15. Hornets (o) 20-43
EAST:
1. Bulls (c) 48-16, 2. Heat (se) 45-18, 3. Pacers (x) 41-23, 4. Celtics (a) 37-27, 5. Hawks (x) 38-25, 6. Magic (x) 36-27, 7. Knicks (x) 33-30, 8. 76ers 33-30, 9. Bucks 30-33, 10. Pistons (o) 23-40, 11. Raptors (o) 22-41, 12. Nets (o) 22-42,  13. Cavaliers (o) 21-41, 14. Wizards (o) 17-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-55

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog: Hawks defeat the Celtics at home 97-92. Spurs defeat the Lakers at home 121-97.

Joe Johnson drives over Avery Bradley

Photo ©NBA/Hawks.com

This is the 25th blog I’ve written since I returned to blogging a couple of days ago. So LET’S ROCK! and here is the NBA Daily blog for April 21 (Philippine time).

The Atlanta Hawks inch closer to securing homecourt advantage in the first round as they defeat their possible first round opponent, the Boston Celtics at Philips Arena 97-92. With the win, the Hawks improve to 38-25. While the Celtics drop to 37-27, they hold the 4th seed since they won the Atlantic Division. However, they may have to deal with a homecourt disadvantage since the Hawks who are currently 5th have a better record than the Celtics by 1.5 games.

The Hawks were led by Joe Johnson with 30 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Josh Smith finished with a double-double 19 points and 12 rebounds with 3 steals and 3 blocks. Kirk Hinrich, Willie Green and Jason Collins each scored 8.

The Celtics who were playing without their Big 4 of Rajon Rondo, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen were led by Avery Bradley with 28 points and 4 steals. Keyon Dooling scored 17. Marquis Daniels added 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 steals off the bench. Brandon Bass added 10 points and 5 rebounds.

Tony Parker defended by Ramon Sessions

Photo ©NBA/Spurs.com

The San Antonio Spurs spoil the return of Kobe Bryant to the Los Angeles Lakers lineup with a victory at the AT&T Center 121-97. With the victory the Spurs maintain their hold on 1st place in the Western Conference at 46-16 holding to a 0.5 game advantage over the Oklahoma City Thunder. While the Lakers drop to 40-24 holding to the 3rd seed with a 0.5 game lead over their cross-town rivals the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Spurs were led by Tim Duncan with21 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 blocks. Tony Parker finishedwith a double-double 20 points and 10 assists with 2 steals. Manu Ginobili off the bench also scored 20 with 6 rebounds and 7assists. Gary Neal scored 12.

The Lakers were led by Kobe Bryant with 18 points. Andrew Bynum scored 17. Matt Barnes added 14 points and 5 rebounds. Pau Gasol added11 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. Metta World Peace added 10points and 3 steals.

In Charlotte, the Memphis Grizzlies extend the losing streak of the Charlotte Bobcats to 19 games with the victory at Time Warner Cable Arena 85-80. Mike Conley led the Grizzlies with 20 points, 7 assists and 3 steals. Zach Randolph added 14 points and 6 rebounds off the bench. Rudy Gay, O.J. Mayo and Dante Cunningham each scored 9 points. Gerald Henderson led the Bobcats with 32 points and 2 steals. Rookie Kemba Walker, Derrick Brown and Byron Mullens each scored 11. 

In Cleveland, the Cleveland Cavaliers stun the New York Knicks at the Quicken Loans Arena 98-90. Rookie Kyrie Irving led the Cavaliers with 21 points. Manny Harris finished with a double-double 19 points and 12 rebounds. Samardo Samuels added 15 points and 2 blocks off the bench. Another rookie Tristan Thompson added 10 points and 6 rebounds. Amar’e Stoudemire who returned to the lineup after an injury led the Knicks with 15 points and 4 blocks. Steve Novak also scored 15 off the bench. Carmelo Anthony and Mike Bibby each scored 12. J.R. Smith added 11 points and 6 rebounds.

In Dallas, the defending champion DallasMavericks pick up a 10 point win over the Golden State Warriors at the American Airlines Center 104-94. Vince Carter off the bench led the Mavericks with 19 points and 9rebounds. Brandan Wright added 17 points and 7 rebounds. Dirk Nowitzki and Delonte West each scored 16. Shawn Marion added 14 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals. Rookie KlayThompson led the Warriors with 26 points. Brandon Rush offthe bench added 20 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. Dorell Wright added 19 points and 2 steals. Another rookie Jeremy Tyler added 15points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. Charles Jenkins added adouble-double 10 points and 10 assists with 3 steals.

In Sacramento, the Oklahoma City Thunder are still on the hunt for the #1 seed out West with a win overthe Sacramento Kings at the Power Balance Pavilion 103-92. Kevin Durant led the Thunder with a double-double 29 pointsand 14 rebounds with 7 assists. James Harden off the bench added 20 points, 6 rebounds and 3 steals. Russell Westbrook added 18 points and 2 steals. Serge Ibaka added 12 points, 6 rebounds and 8 blocks. Kendrick Perkins added 10 points and 7 rebounds. DeMarcus Cousins led the Kings with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Tyreke Evans scored 16. Jason Thompson added 13 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. Rookie Isaiah Thomas scored 12. Another rookie Jimmer Fredette scored 11.

STANDINGS AS OF 4/21/12 (13:06 PHT)
WEST:
1. Spurs (sw) 46-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 46-17, 3. Lakers (x) 40-24, 4. Clippers (x) 39-24, 5. Grizzlies (x) 38-25, 6. Mavericks (x) 36-28, 7. Nuggets 34-28, 8. Suns 33-30, 9. Jazz 33-30, 10. Rockets 32-31, 11. Trail Blazers (o) 28-35, 12. Timberwolves (o) 26-38, 13. Warriors (o) 22-40, 14. Kings (o) 20-43, 15. Hornets (o) 20-43
EAST:
1. Bulls (c) 47-16, 2. Heat (se) 45-17, 3. Pacers (x) 41-22, 4. Celtics (a) 37-27, 5. Hawks (x) 38-25, 6. Magic (x) 36-26, 7. Knicks (x) 33-30, 8. 76ers 32-30, 9. Bucks 29-33, 10. Pistons (o) 23-40, 11. Nets (o) 22-41, 12. Raptors (o) 22-41, 13. Cavaliers (o) 21-41, 14. Wizards (o) 16-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-55

K-Smoove

Today, we dine, we laughed, we chill out.

In the middle of summer vacation, you can not help using your time wisely, especially this is a time where you have all the time in the world to use from (unless if your doing summer jobs or classes during the summer time). So that’s why today, I decided to spend time with some of my friends for lunch. One of our friends Yna decided to treat us all to lunch at Shakey’s España which is near the UST campus. 

It was a great feeling to be around with friends again, a few weeks after classes came to an end. Spending leisure time with my friends, it was also a chance to catch-up with the things that has happened since the break, especially my friend Ish who is now studying at another school after she left UST at the end of our first year of studies (Well most of my friends keep in touch, I just don’t go out often, so it’s great seeing them again.)

 

Photos ©Riana De Guzman

The lunch we had was perfect for all of us. 2 pizzas (Manager’s Choice and Pepperoni), Chicken and Mojos, Spaghetti and Carbonara with 3 pitchers of Coke. Good enough for the whole troupe. 

Though i dropped 2 pizza slices which was bad on my part. Was it on my sometimes clumsy actions? or was I out of sync that time? Well, past is past. Just rock on in the end.

Afterwards, we went on a little side trip down at the Moonleaf Tea Shop. Though, I never tried their drinks, although the PEEPS say their drinks are good (I just don’t like  and of course the sound trip with the songs being played on the sound system.


So we thank Yna for the lunch today, and of course to the rest of the Tropa-GUISE who were with me as well Kym, Ryan, Claudine, Deece, Ish, Gieane (with little sister) and Nicole. Thank you for the great time today. It was all worth it. It adds another great experience to the things that happened on my favorite month of the year April.


10 days from now, it’s my birthday. I can’t wait. I wonder what will happen on the day itself.

But for now, I say enjoy the ride.


But friendship is precious, not only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life, and thanks to a benevolent arrangement the greater part of life is sunshine. – Thomas Jefferson

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog: Rockets suffer 6th straight defeat in a loss against the Hornets at the Big Easy 99-105.

Eric Gordon lays it in over the Rockets defense

Photo ©NBA/Rockets.com

Chances of getting into the playoffs are growing slim for the Houston Rockets as they suffer a major setback, in a overtime loss against the worst team in the West, the New Orleans Hornets at the New Orleans Arena 99-105. The Rockets are now a full game behind the Phoenix Suns (who won against the Clippers today, story below) and the Utah Jazz with a record of 32-31 with only three games remaining (vs Golden State, @ Miami, and vs New Orleans). While the Hornets improve to 20-43.

The Rockets were led by Goran Dragic with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Chase Budinger added 22 points and 6 rebounds off the bench. Courtney Lee scored 15. Marcus Camby added 14 points and 7 rebounds. Luis Scola added 11 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals.

The Hornets were led by Eric Gordon with 27 points, 5 assists and 3 steals. One-time Rockets player Carl Landry finished with a double-double 20 points and 10 rebounds off the bench. Al-Farouq Aminu added 17 points and 8 rebounds. Marco Belinelli scored 13. Rookie Gustavo Ayon pulled down 10 rebounds with 9 points. Greivis Vasquez dished out 9 assists with 7 points.

In Indianapolis, the Indiana Pacers secure home-court advantage for the 1st round with a win against the Milwaukee Bucks who take a hit to their chances of competing in the playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse 118-109. Danny Granger led the Pacers with 29 points and 5 rebounds. George Hill added 22 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. David West finished with a double-double 21 points and 14 rebounds with 7 assists. Paul George added 14 points, 5 assists and 3 steals. Roy Hibbert added 12 points and 5 rebounds. Leandro Barbosa scored 10 off the bench. Brandon Jennings led the Bucks with 27 points and 5 rebounds. Mike Dunleavy Jr. added 23 points and 8 rebounds off the bench. Luc Mbah a Moute finished with a double-double 16 points and 11 rebounds. Drew Gooden added 15 points and 7 rebounds. Monta Ellis added 12 points and 7 rebounds.


In Detroit, the Minnesota Timberwolves snap their 11 game losing streak with the win over the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills 91-80. Nikola Pekovic led the Timberwolves with 23 points and 9 rebounds. Anthony Randolph finished with a double-double 15 points and 10 rebounds with 3 blocks. J.J. Barea also finished with a double-double 13 points and 12 assists. Michael Beasley off the bench also scored 13 points with 7 rebounds. Rookie Derrick Williams scored 11. Tayshaun Prince led the Pistons with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Will Bynum scored 17 off the bench. Ben Gordon scored 14. Charlie Villanueva pulled down 12 rebounds.


In Miami, the Miami Heat without one member of their Big 3 Chris Bosh keep their hopes of finishing the season a top the East with a win over the Derrick Rose-less Chicago Bulls at the American Airlines Arena 83-72. LeBron James led the Heat with a double-double 27 points and 11 rebounds with 6 assists. Dwayne Wade added 18 points, 5 assists and 3 steals. Mario Chalmers scored 16. Udonis Haslem pulled down 10 rebounds. John Lucas III off the bench led the Bulls with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Joakim Noah finished with a double-double 15 points and 10 rebounds. Luol Deng scored 11. Carlos Boozer scored 10.


In Phoenix, the Phoenix Suns barge into the 8th seed with a thrilling victory over the Los Angeles Clippers at the US Airways Center 93-90. Jared Dudley led the Suns with 18 points. Channing Frye added 16 points and 5 rebounds. Marcin Gortat finished with a double-double 14 points and 14 rebounds. Steve Nash and Sebastian Telfair each scored 13 points. Chris Paul led the Hornets with a double-double 19 points and 10 assists. Caron Butler added 17 points and 5 rebounds. Blake Griffin also finished with a double-double 16 points and 11 rebounds. Randy Foye scored 11.

With the Rockets loss to the Hornets, the Dallas Mavericks clinch a playoff berth in the Western Conference.

With the Bucks loss to the Pacers, the New York Knicks clinch a playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.

STANDINGS AS OF 4/20/12 (20:51 PHT)

WEST:

1. Spurs (sw) 45-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 45-17, 3. Lakers (x) 40-23, 4. Clippers (x) 39-24, 5. Grizzlies (x) 37-25,6. Mavericks (x) 35-28, 7. Nuggets 34-28, 8. Suns 33-30,9. Jazz 33-30,10. Rockets 32-31, 11. Trail Blazers (o) 28-35, 12. Timberwolves (o) 26-38, 13. Warriors (o) 22-39, 14. Kings (o) 20-42, 15. Hornets (o) 20-43

EAST:

1. Bulls (c) 47-16, 2. Heat (se) 45-17, 3. Pacers (x) 41-22, 4. Celtics (a) 37-26, 5. Hawks (x) 37-25, 6. Magic (x) 36-26, 7. Knicks (x) 33-29, 8. 76ers 32-30, 9. Bucks 29-33, 10. Pistons (o) 23-40, 11. Nets (o) 22-41, 12. Raptors (o) 22-41, 13. Cavaliers (o) 20-41, 14. Wizards (o) 16-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-54


K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog: Rockets drop their 5th straight game in a loss vs the Mavericks in Dallas 110-117.

 

 Vince Carter drives over Marcus Camby

Photo ©NBA/Rockets.com

 

The Houston Rockets suffer another setback to their playoff aspirations as they lost to their I-45 rivals the defending champion Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center 110-117. The Mavericks outscored the Rockets 39-26 in the 4th quarter. The Rockets with the loss drop to 32-30 trying to hold on to their chances of making it back to the playoffs for the first time since 2009. While the Mavericks improve to 34-28.


The Rockets were led by Goran Dragic with a double-double 20 points and 10 assists with 2 steals. Luis Scola added 18 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals. Courtney Lee added 16 points and 2 steals. Chase Budinger scored 14 off the bench. Rookie Chandler Parsons scored 12. Marcus Camby also finished with a double-double 11 points and 17 rebounds. Kyle Lowry added 11 points and 5 assists.


The Mavericks were led by Dirk Nowitzki with 35 points and 5 rebounds. Vince Carter off the bench scored 23. Jason Terry scored 19. Jason Kidd added 12 points and 8 assists. Delonte West scored 11.


In Washington, DC, the Washington Wizards disrupt the Milwaukee Bucks playoff aspirations with a big victory at the Verizon Center 121-112. Jordan Crawford led the Wizards with 32 points. John Wall finished with a double-double 14 points and 10 assists. Nene and Kevin Seraphin each scored 14. James Singleton added 11 points and 5 rebounds. Rookie Chris Singleton scored 10. Another rookie Jan Vesely pulled-down 10 rebounds with 8 points. Monta Ellis led the Bucks with 31 points, 6 assists and 3 steals. Brandon Jennings added 25 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Drew Gooden finished with a double-double 21 points and 12 rebounds with 6 assists and 2 steals. Ersan Ilyasova also finished with a double-double 14 points and 11 rebounds.


In Charlotte, the Chicago Bulls without all-stars Derrick Rose and Luol Deng rout the Charlotte Bobcats who have now lost their 18th consecutive game at the Time Warner Cable Arena 100-68. Richard Hamilton led the Bulls with 22 points and 6 assists. Joakim Noah and John Lucas III each scored 12 points. Carlos Boozer added 10 points and 7 rebounds. Omer Asik pulled down 15 rebounds with 9 points off the bench. Taj Gibson pulled down 12 rebounds with 9 points. Rookie Kemba Walker led the Bobcats with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Derrick Brown scored 14. Gerald Henderson scored 13. Another rookie Bismack Biyombo pulled down 13 rebounds with 7 points.


In Cleveland, the Philadelphia 76ers win by 16 points over the Cleveland Cavaliers at the Quicken Loans Arena 103-87. Jrue Holiday led the 76ers with 24 points and 5 assists. Andre Iguodala finished with a double-double 19 points and 13 rebounds with 7 assists and 2 steals. Elton Brand scored 12. Thaddeus Young off the bench also scored 12. Evan Turner scored 10. Lester Hudson and Samardo Samuels led the Cavaliers with each scoring 15 points. Rookie Tristan Thompson added 12 points and 5 rebounds. Antawn Jamison scored 11.

In Newark, the New York Knicks pick up the win over the New Jersey Nets at the Prudential Center 104-95. Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with 33 points and 7 rebounds. Tyson Chandler finished with a double-double 18 points and 10 rebounds with 2 blocks. J.R. Smith added 15 points and 8 rebounds. Gerald Wallace led the Nets with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Sundiata Gaines added 18 points and 6 assists. Gerald Green added 12 points and 7 rebounds. Anthony Morrow scored 10. Kris Humphries pulled down 15 rebounds with 8 points.

In Atlanta, the Atlanta Hawks win in a blowout against the Detroit Pistons at Philips Arena 116-84. Veteran Tracy McGrady off the bench led the Hawks with 17 points. Rookie Ivan Johnson finished with a double-double 16 points and 10 rebounds. Joe Johnson scored 13. Josh Smith added 12 points and 9 rebounds. Marvin Williams added 10 points and 7 rebounds. Willie Green also scored 10. Greg Monroe led the Pistons with 17 points and 5 rebounds. D-League call-up Walker Russell scored 15 off the bench. Charlie Villanueva added 14 points and 6 rebounds.

In Miami, the Miami Heat without Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh defeat the Toronto Raptors at the American Airlines Arena 92-76. LeBron James led the Heat with 28 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals. Mike Miller off the bench added 13 points and 6 assists. Udonis Haslem added 10 points and 7 rebounds. James Johnson off the bench led the Raptors with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Alan Anderson scored 15. DeMar DeRozan scored 12.

In Boston, the Boston Celtics clinch their 5th straight Atlantic Division title without Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen with a thrilling victory over the Orlando Magic at the TD Garden 102-98. Paul Pierce led the Celtics with a double-double 29 points and 14 assists with 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Avery Bradley scored 23. Former Magic player Brandon Bass scored 21. Kevin Garnett added 15 points and 9 rebounds. Former Celtics player Glen Davis led the Magic with 27 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Jameer Nelson added 21 points and 9 assists. J.J. Redick added 13 points and 5 assists. Ryan Anderson added 12 points and 9 rebounds. Jason Richardson added 11 points and 6 rebounds.


In Memphis, the Memphis Grizzlies clinch a playoff berth with a victory over the New Orleans Hornets at the FedExForum 103-91. Rudy Gay led the Grizzlies with 26 points and 5 rebounds. Mike Conley added 20 points and 5 assists. O.J. Mayo scored 15 off the bench. Zach Randolph added 10 points and 6 rebounds. D-League call-up Jerome Dyson off the bench led the Hornets with 24 points and 3 steals. Marco Belinelli and Carl Landry each scored 16. Jason Smith scored 12. Former Grizzlies player Greivis Vasquez dished out 9 assists with 9 points.


In Denver, the Los Angeles Clippers are still on the hunt for the Pacific Division crown with a win over the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center 104-98. Chris Paul led the Clippers with 21 points, 8 assists and 3 steals. Mo Williams scored 19 off the bench. Caron Butler scored 14. Nick Young scored 13. Blake Griffin added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Randy Foye also scored 12. Ty Lawson led the Nuggets with 24 points and 6 assists. Al Harrington added 14 points and 8 rebounds. Arron Afflalo, Andre Miller, rookie Kenneth Faried and Kosta Koufos each scored 12.


In Phoenix, the Oklahoma City Thunder are still on the hunt for reclaiming the top seed out West with a win over the Phoenix Suns at the US Airways Center 109-97. James Harden off the bench led the Thunder with 40 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals. Kevin Durant finished with a double-double 29 points and 11 rebounds with 5 assists. Russell Westbrook added 15 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals. Jared Dudley led the Suns with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Channing Frye added 13 points and 8 rebounds. Steve Nash scored 12. Robin Lopez scored 11 off the bench. Marcin Gortat pulled down 12 rebounds with 9 points.


In Sacramento, the San Antonio Spurs maintain their hold of 1st place out West with a win over the Sacramento Kings at the Power Balance Pavilion 127-102. Gary Neal and Tiago Splitter both coming off the bench led the Spurs with each scoring 17 points. Tony Parker added 15 points and 8 assists. Manu Ginobili, Stephen Jackson and rookie Kawhi Leonard each scored 13. Danny Green scored 11. Rookie Isaiah Thomas led the Kings with 21 points and 8 assists. Marcus Thornton scored 20. DeMarcus Cousins added 18 points and 9 rebounds. Jason Thompson added 10 points and 6 rebounds.


In Portland, the Utah Jazz take the 8th seed out West with a win over the Portland Trail Blazers at the Rose Garden 112-91. Devin Harris led the Jazz with 27 points. Gordon Hayward scored 23. Rookie Alec Burks scored 17 off the bench. Al Jefferson finished with a double-double 11 points and 10 rebounds. Another rookie Enes Kanter scored 10. Wesley Matthews led the Trail Blazers with 21 points. J.J. Hickson added 16 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks. Rookie Nolan Smith and Luke Babbitt also scored 16. Jonny Flynn added 11 points and 7 assists.

In Oakland, the Los Angeles Lakers maintain their hold on the 3rd seed out West with a win over the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena 99-87. Andrew Bynum led the Lakers with 31 points and 9 rebounds. Pau Gasol finished with a triple-double 22 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists with 3 blocks. Metta World Peace added 18 points and 9 assists. Rookie Klay Thompson led the Warriors with 17 points and 5 assists. Another rookie Jeremy Tyler added 15 points and 6 assists. Dorell Wright added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Brandon Rush scored 10. Rookie Charles Jenkins dished out 11 assists.


STANDINGS AS OF 4/19/12 (13:19 PHT)

WEST:

1. Spurs (sw) 45-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 45-17, 3. Lakers (x) 40-23, 4. Clippers (x) 39-23, 5. Grizzlies (x) 37-25,6. Mavericks 35-28, 7. Nuggets 34-28,8. Jazz 33-30,9. Suns 32-30,10. Rockets 32-30, 11. Trail Blazers (o) 28-35, 12. Timberwolves (o) 25-38, 13. Warriors (o) 22-39, 14. Kings (o) 20-42, 15. Hornets (o) 19-43

EAST:

1. Bulls (c) 47-15, 2. Heat (se) 44-17, 3. Pacers (x) 40-22, 4. Celtics (a) 37-26, 5. Hawks (x) 37-25, 6. Magic (x) 36-26, 7. Knicks 33-29, 8. 76ers 32-30, 9. Bucks 29-32, 10. Pistons (o) 23-39, 11. Nets (o) 22-41, 12. Raptors (o) 22-41, 13. Cavaliers (o) 20-41, 14. Wizards (o) 16-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-54K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog: Knicks take Atlantic division showdown vs the Celtics at MSG 118-110. Spurs win West showdown vs the Lakers in Tinseltown 112-91.

 Carmelo Anthony drives against Paul Pierce

Photo ©NBA/Knicks.com

The New York Knicks win in a high-scoring Atlantic Division shootout against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden 118-100. With the win, the Knicks improve their hold on the 7th seed at 32-29. While the Celtics maintain their hold on the 4th seed since they are still leading the Atlantic at 36-26.

The Knicks were led by Carmelo Anthony who finished with a triple-double 35 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists with 2 steals. J.R. Smith and Steve Novak both coming off the bench each scored 25 points while combining for 15-20 from 3 point range (Novak with 8 threes, Smith with 7 threes). Tyson Chandler added 20 points and 7 rebounds.
 

The Celtics were led by Paul Pierce who finished with 43 points and 2 steals. Kevin Garnett added 20 points and 5 rebounds. Avery Bradley scored 17. Brandon Bass added 15 points and 6 rebounds. Rajon Rondo finished with a double-double 13 points and 13 assists with 6 rebounds.

Tony Parker lays it in over Metta World Peace

Photo ©NBA/Spurs.com

The San Antonio Spurs have now taken a foot hold of first place in the Western Conference with a huge victory against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center 112-91. The Spurs improve to 44-16 with a 0.5 game advantage over the Oklahoma City Thunder. While the Lakers drop to 39-23 holding on to a 0.5 game advantage over their cross-town rivals the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Spurs were led by Tony Parker who finished with a double-double 29 points and 13 assists. Tim Duncan added 19 points and 8 rebounds. Manu Ginobili off the bench added 15 points and 6 rebounds. Danny Green scored 11. Gary Neal scored 10.

The Lakers who were playing without star Kobe Bryant were led by Andrew Bynum with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Pau Gasol added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Matt Barnes off the bench also scored 16 points with 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Metta World Peace added 11 points and 3 steals. Ramon Sessions scored 10.

In Philadelphia, the Indiana Pacers win in a tight game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center 102-97. Danny Granger led the Pacers with 24 points and 6 rebounds. Roy Hibbert finished with a double-double 15 points and 13 rebounds. David West added 13 points and 2 blocks. George Hill added 12 points and 7 assists. Andre Iguodala led the 76ers with 23 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Thaddeus Young added 19 points and 6 rebounds off the bench. Lou Williams scored 18. Spencer Hawes added 12 points and 8 rebounds. Elton Brand added 11 points and 8 rebounds.

In Detroit, the Detroit Pistons win in a 39 point blowout over the Cleveland Cavaliers at The Palace of Auburn Hills 116-77. Rookie Brandon Knight led the Pistons with 28 points and 7 assists. Tayshaun Prince scored 15. Jonas Jerebko scored 14 off the bench. Greg Monroe finished with a double-double 12 points, and 13 rebounds with 4 steals and 2 blocks. Jason Maxiell scored 11. Manny Harris led the Cavaliers with 18 points off the bench. Rookie Tristan Thompson finished with a double-double 12 points and 13 rebounds. Omri Casspi scored 11. Anthony Parker scored 10.

In Minneapolis, the Memphis Grizzlies inch closer to clinching a playoff berth as they defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves who have now lost their 11th consecutive game at the Target Center 91-84. Rudy Gay led the Grizzlies with 28 points and 9 rebounds. Zach Randolph off the bench finished with a double-double 16 points and 11 rebounds. Mike Conley also scored 16 points with 8 assists and 2 steals. Marreese Speights scored 12. J.J. Barea led the Timberwolves with 28 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Nikola Pekovic finished with a double-double 16 points and 11 rebounds.

STANDINGS AS OF 4/18/12 (13:17 PHT)

WEST:

1. Spurs (sw) 44-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 44-17, 3. Lakers (x) 39-23, 4. Clippers (x) 38-23, 5. Grizzlies 36-25, 6. Nuggets 34-27, 7. Mavericks 34-28, 8. Suns 32-29, 9. Rockets 32-29, 10. Jazz 32-30, 11. Trail Blazers 28-34, 12. Timberwolves (o) 25-38, 13. Warriors (o) 22-38, 14. Kings (o) 20-41, 15. Hornets (o) 19-42

EAST:

1. Bulls (c) 46-15, 2. Heat (se) 43-17, 3. Pacers (x) 40-22, 4. Celtics (x) 36-26, 5. Hawks (x) 36-25, 6. Magic (x) 36-25, 7. Knicks 32-29, 8. 76ers 31-30, 9. Bucks 29-31, 10. Pistons (o) 23-38, 11. Nets (o) 22-40, 12. Raptors (o) 22-40, 13. Cavaliers (o) 20-40, 14. Wizards (o) 15-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-53

K-Smoove

NBA Daily Blog: Rockets lose a heartbreaker to the Nuggets, this time at home 102-105

 Arron Afflalo drives against Chandler Parsons and Samuel Dalembert

Photo ©NBA/Rockets.com

The Houston Rockets suffer from another defeat against the Denver Nuggets, this time it was more heartbreaking than the previous loss, it was played at home at the Toyota Center and they lost by only three points 102-105. The Rockets drop to 32-29, while the Nuggets improve to 34-27.

Chandler Parsons who missed the potential overtime-sending three pointer finished with 21 points and 3 steals. Goran Dragic also scored 21 points with 7 assists. Courtney Lee scored 18. Luis Scola finished with a double-double 14 points and 13 rebounds. Kyle Lowry scored 10 off the bench. Samuel Dalembert blocked 7 shots.

Arron Afflalo led the Nuggets with 26 points and 5 assists. Ty Lawson scored 25. Al Harrington added 15 points and 9 rebounds off the bench. Danilo Gallinari and Corey Brewer each scored 11. Andre Miller dished out 13 assists.

In Toronto, the Atlanta Hawks get their revenge with a victory that clinches a playoff berth against the Toronto Raptors at the Air Canada Center 109-87. Rookie Ivan Johnson off the bench led the Hawks with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Jeff Teague finished with a double-double 19 points, 10 assists with 6 rebounds and 2 blocks. Joe Johnson scored 18. Marvin Williams scored 16. Josh Smith added 15 points, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks. Tracy McGrady scored 11. DeMar DeRozan led the Raptors with 22 points. James Johnson scored 16 off the bench. Rookie Alan Anderson scored 12. Ben Uzoh pulled down 10 rebounds with 8 assists.

In Charlotte, the New Orleans Hornets pick up the win against the Charlotte Bobcats who have lost their 17th consecutive game at the Time Warner Cable Arena 75-67. Greivis Vasquez led the Hornets with 20 points and 6 assists. Carl Landry off the bench added a double-double 14 points and 12 rebounds. Marco Belinelli scored 13. Gerald Henderson led the Bobcats with 27 points and 3 blocks. Kemba Walker scored 14. Byron Mullens pulled down 10 rebounds and blocked 4 shots.

In Orlando, the Orlando Magic get the win over the Philadelphia 76ers at the Amway Center 113-100. Ryan Anderson led the Magic with a double double 26 points and 16 rebounds. J.J. Redick scored 18. Jason Richardson scored 17. Jameer Nelson also finished with a double-double 16 points and 13 assists. Earl Clark off the bench also came up with a double-double 14 points and 11 rebounds. Quentin Richardson scored 13. Jrue Holiday led the 76ers with 18 points, 8 assists, 2 assists and 2 blocks. Andre Iguodala, Lou Williams and Thaddeus Young each scored 15. Evan Turner scored 13 off the bench. Spencer Hawes added 10 points and 9 rebounds.

In Indianapolis, the Indiana Pacers solidify their hold on the 3rd seed as they defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves who have lost their 10th consecutive game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse 111-88. David West led the Pacers with a double-double 22 points and 10 rebounds. Danny Granger added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Paul George added 18 points and 5 rebounds. Roy Hibbert also finished with a double-double 12 points and 11 rebounds with 5 blocks. George Hill scored 11. J.J. Barea led the Timberwolves with 14 points and 9 assists. Rookie Derrick Williams off the bench finished with a double-double 13 points and 10 rebounds. Michael Beasley also scored 13. Nikola Pekovic scored 10.

In Newark, the Miami Heat come from behind as the defeat the New Jersey Nets at the Prudential Center 101-98. The Heat who are playing without one of their Big 3 in Dwayne Wade were led by LeBron James with 37 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. Chris Bosh finished with a double-double 22 points and 15 rebounds. The Nets who were playing without star Deron Williams were led by Kris Humphries with 29 points and 8 rebounds. Rookie MarShon Brooks added 24 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Gerald Green scored 14. Sundiata Gaines added 11 points and 7 assists off the bench.


In Chicago, the Washington Wizards pull off an upset against the league leading Chicago Bulls at United Center 87-84. Kevin Seraphin led the Wizards with a double-double 21 points and 13 rebounds with 5 blocks. John Wall scored 16. Maurice Evans scored 14 off the bench. The Bulls who were playing without all-stars Derrick Rose and Luol Deng were led by Rip Hamilton with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. C.J. Watson added 17 points and 8 assists. Carlos Boozer finished with a double-double 16 points and 13 rebounds. Joakim Noah pulled down 11 rebounds and blocked 5 shots.


In Salt Lake City, the Utah Jazz win in a thrilling triple-overtime against the defending champion Dallas Mavericks at the EnergySolutions Arena 123-121. Al Jefferson led the Jazz with a double-double 28 points and 26 rebounds with 2 blocks. Gordon Hayward added 24 points and 5 assists. Devin Harris added 23 points and 7 assists. Paul Millsap added 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. DeMarre Carroll added 15 points and 6 assists. Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks with 40 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Jason Terry scored 27 off the bench. Vince Carter finished with a double-double 18 points and 11 rebounds. Delonte West scored 16. Jason Kidd added 10 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists.


In Phoenix, the Phoenix Suns are still on the hunt for a playoff berth with a blowout win at the same time knocking off the Portland Trail Blazers out of playoff contention at the US Airways Center 125-107. Marcin Gortat led the Suns with a double-double 20 points and 10 rebounds. Channing Frye added 19 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks. Jared Dudley scored 18. Shannon Brown scored 16. Rookie Markieff Morris added 14 points and 6 rebounds off the bench. Sebastian Telfair scored 12. Steve Nash dished out 13 assists. Jamal Crawford off the bench and J.J. Hickson led the Trail Blazers with each scoring 22 points. Wesley Matthews scored 19. Luke Babbitt scored 18. Rookie Nolan Smith scored 14.


In Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Clippers will return to the playoffs for the first time since 2006 after clinching a playoff berth with the win against the 2nd placed Oklahoma City Thunder at Staples Center 92-77. Nick Young off the bench led the Clippers with 19 points. Blake Griffin finished with a double-double 17 points and 11 rebounds with 6 assists and 4 blocks. Randy Foye scored 13. Chris Paul also finished with a double-double 12 points and 10 assists. Mo Williams scored 11. DeAndre Jordan pulled down 12 rebounds. Kevin Durant led the Thunder with 24 points. Serge Ibaka added 12 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. James Harden scored 12 off the bench.


In Oakland, the San Antonio Spurs move into first place in the Western Conference with a win against the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena 120-99. Gary Neal off the bench led the Spurs with 17 points and 5 assists. Tiago Splitter added 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks. Tim Duncan scored 13. Manu Ginobili scored 12. Danny Green scored 11. DeJuan Blair scored 10. Nate Robinson off the bench led the Warriors with 30 points and 7 assists. Rookie Klay Thompson scored 29. Dorell Wright added 17 points and 6 rebounds. Another rookie Jeremy Tyler finished with a double-double 11 points and 10 rebounds.

STANDINGS AS OF 4/17/12 (13:42 PHT)

WEST:

1. Spurs (sw) 43-16, 2. Thunder (nw) 44-17, 3. Lakers (x) 39-22, 4. Clippers (x) 38-23, 5. Grizzlies 35-25, 6. Nuggets 34-27, 7. Mavericks 34-28, 8. Suns 32-29, 9. Rockets 32-29, 10. Jazz 32-30, 11. Trail Blazers 28-34, 12. Timberwolves (o) 25-37, 13. Warriors (o) 22-38, 14. Kings (o) 20-41, 15. Hornets (o) 19-42

EAST:

1. Bulls (c) 46-15, 2. Heat (se) 43-17, 3. Pacers (x) 39-22, 4. Celtics (x) 36-25, 5. Hawks (x) 36-25, 6. Magic (x) 36-25, 7. Knicks 31-29, 8. 76ers 31-29, 9. Bucks 29-31, 10. Pistons (o) 22-38, 11. Nets (o) 22-40, 12. Raptors (o) 22-40, 13. Cavaliers (o) 20-39, 14. Wizards (o) 15-46, 15. Bobcats (o) 7-53

K-Smoove

Me and my basketball. We take it all the way.

Photo ©Karl Carandang

It is no secret that I love playing and watching basketball, as seen on my NBA Daily Blog where I blog about the NBA games that have happened since I “resurrected” my blog a few days, and the fact the Philippines is still a basketball nation even with the rise of other sports like football, rugby and tennis, as well as sports with a long presence in the Philippines like boxing, billiards, volleyball and taekwondo. Basketball has been a part of my life since 2002 when the NBA came upon our television sets. Even up to today, basketball is one of the most special things I cherish in my entire life.

My first favorite NBA team was the Utah Jazz where my first favorite NBA player Karl Malone was playing. At first, I was playing basketball on video games on the PlayStation and so on, but a few months later, I got my hands on a basketball for the first time and life has never been the same from there.

I grew in love more with basketball when the Houston Rockets drafted Yao Ming out of China to become the first Asian player to be drafted #1 overall in the NBA Draft and from there, I have become a proud fan of the Rockets with Yao as my new favorite player. I also liked other Rockets players that have played over the years like Steve Francis, Cuttino Mobley, Tracy McGrady, Bob Sura, Shane Battier, Chuck Hayes, Rafer Alston, Dikembe Mutombo, Aaron Brooks, Luis Scola, Carl Landry, Kyle Lowry, Ron Artest (now known as Metta World Peace), Von Wafer, Kevin Martin, Chase Budinger, Courtney Lee, Goran Dragic, and many other Rockets players since I’ve watched with the NBA on TV. Over the years when I grew up, that was then I found out about the history of the Rockets with the likes of Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, Robert Horry, Kenny Smith, Sam Cassell, Mario Elie, Vernon Maxwell, Otis Thorpe, Ralph Sampson, Rudy Tomjanovich, Calvin Murphy, Charles Barkley and many other Rockets greats. That was then when I found out they were the NBA Champions in 1994 and 1995, and right now I hope that the Rockets can win a NBA title in my lifetime, because the time they won NBA titles, I was still a baby.

Aside from the Rockets and all the great players, I came to like other players like Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, Isiah Thomas, Shaquille O’Neal, Reggie Miller, Allen Iverson, Kevin Garnett, Derrick Rose, Blake Griffin, Kevin Durant, Dirk Nowitzki, Andre Iguodala, Josh Smith, Joe Johnson, Jeremy Lin, Kevin Love, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant and many other players from different eras and the present. I also like other teams like the Atlanta Hawks, Orlando Magic, Oklahoma City Thunder, Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, and New York Knicks.

Aside from the NBA, I also keep track of basketball played here in the Philippines from the Philippine Basketball Association to the college game UAAP and NCAA (Philippines). Some PBA teams I like are the Petron Blaze Boosters, Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, B-Meg Llamados, Alaska Aces, and the Powerade Tigers. Also, I am a supporter of the Philippine national team in basketball and the AirAsia Philippine Patriots of the ASEAN Basketball League.

I admit that before I came to study at the University of Santo Tomas, my favorite college team were the Ateneo Blue Eagles, but now that I am a full-pledged Thomasian, I wholeheartedly support the UST Growling Tigers, and I hope in my time as a student, they win the UAAP basketball tournament. I also like the Letran Knights and the San Sebastian Golden Stags of the NCAA (Philippines).

I also take a look at in international basketball contests like the FIBA tournaments in each region and the Euroleague.

I also come in to play video games, The first basketball video game I played was NBA Shootout 2000. Then it was followed the NBA Live series from 2003 to 2007, and now I’m a huge fan of the NBA 2K series since 2008, especially after the improvements and innovations they put up in every issue of the game that had been launched since then.

Whenever I play basketball myself, I’m a left-handed shooter, as I write with my left hand and favor more of my left hand than my right. I like to take three-pointers and mid-range shots, but sometimes I go for a lay-up or close-range shot. I’m trying my best to improve my passing, dribbling, and ball-handling game which is a constant improvement year after year. I can be a underrated on-ball defender. I enjoy playing basketball for the fun of it all, together with my friends at the basketball court. Whether it is free time during my PE class in high school and in games for one semester at the university, to playing at the Intramurals in high school or the CTHM Sportsfest, or to playing in the subdivision with my friends.

Basketball has been a part of my life for already a decade, basketball has shaped my life to the person I have become today. With basketball, I made great time with my friends and gained new ones along the way, I had a lot of moments of victory with jubilation, and also moments of defeat where I got to learn from my mistakes when playing. Basketball will continue to be a part of my life even after I’m done playing on the court and continue the rest of the day. Just like the Nike campaign “Basketball never stops.”

“Basketball is in my blood. It is my obligation to try.” – Hakeem Olajuwon

“I have one thing to say to those non-believers, don’t ever underestimate the heart of a champion!” – Rudy Tomjanovich

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” – Michael Jordan

A basketball team is like the five fingers on your hand. If you can get them all together, you have a fist. That’s how I want you to play. – Mike Kryzewski

K-Smoove