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Full schedule of the Quarter, Semis, Finals and Classification Games of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023

September 4, 2023

Now that the 1st and second round is done, here the remaining games for the of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. Qualified teams who played in Japan and Indonesia will be travelling to the Philippines, since all QF, SF and Finals games will be played at the MOA Arena.

QUARTER FINALS

September 5 – 2 Games
MOA Arena (Philippines)
Lithuania vs Serbia – 16:45 local time (Game #82)
Italy vs USA – 20:40 local time (Game #81)

September 6 – 2 Games
MOA Arena (Philippines)
Germany vs Latvia – 16:45 local time (Game #83)
Canada vs Slovenia – 20:30 local time (Game #84)

September 7 – 2 Games
MOA Arena (Philippines)
Loser QF 81 (ITA v USA) vs Loser QF 83 (GER v LAT) – Time TBC (Game #85)
Loser QF 82 (LTU v SRB) vs Loser QF 84 (CAN v SLO) – Time TBC (Game #86)

September 8 – 2 Games
MOA Arena (Philippines)
Winner QF 81 (ITA v USA) vs Winner QF 83 (GER v LAT) – Time TBC (Game #87)
Winner QF 82 (LTU v SRB) vs Winner QF 84 (CAN v SLO) – Time TBC (Game #88)

September 9 – 2 Games
MOA Arena (Philippines)
Loser CL 5-8 85: L QF 81 v L QF 83 vs Loser CL 5-8 86: L QF 82 v L QF 84 – Time TBC (Game #89 – Class. Games 7-8)
Winner CL 5-8 85: L QF 81 v L QF 83 vs Winner CL 5-8 86: L QF 82 v L QF 84 – Time TBC (Game #90 – Class. Games 5-6)

September 10 – 2 Games
MOA Arena (Philippines)
Loser SF 87: W QF 81 v W QF 83 vs Loser SF 88: W QF 82 v W QF 84 – (Game #91 – 3rd Place Game)
Winner SF 87: W QF 81 v W QF 83 vs Winner SF 88: W QF 82 v W QF 84 – (Game #92 – Championship)

Source: FIBA, FIBA Games

Team USA Suffers First Loss of FIBA World Cup 2023 to Lithuania

September 4, 2023

Team USA’s unbeaten run at the FIBA World Cup 2023, winning their first five games of the tournament, came to an end on Sunday 3rd of September, when they lost to Lithuania in a thrilling encounter. The final score was 110-104 in favor of Lithuania and in front of 11,349 fans.

The game was played at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines, and saw Lithuania, who played a physical and aggressive game, take control early on. The Lithuanias built a 19 pts lead (12 – 31) in the first qtr and ended the first half with a comfortable 17 pts lead (37 – 54). The Americans led by Anthony Edwards tried to staged a come back but could not get closer than 4 pts (85 -89) with 4:45 mins remaining in the game. Anthony Edwards scored 34 pts and 2 assists, Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges both scored 14 pts but where in effective in the closing period of the game. The trio are the only American player to score in double figures.

Compared to the Team USA, Lithuania played a more balanced game with 7 players in double figures. The team is lead by Vaidas Kariniauskas with 15 pts, followed by Mindaugas Kuzminskas and Jonas Valanciunas, who scored 14 pts and 12 pts, respectively. Valanciunas also grabbed 7 rebs with his 2 blocks.

Lithuania killed the Americans in the second chance points category, making 17 pts against 2 pts from Team USA, 61 – 38 point off the bench. They also shot 52.8% from the field and 56% from three-point range, compare to 37.9% in the 3-pts by the Americans.

The loss is a wake-up call for Team USA, which is still considered the favorite to win the tournament. However, they will need to play better if they want to avoid further upsets.
Despite the loss, Team USA still advanced to the quarterfinals of the FIBA World Cup and are qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics. They will face Italy on Tuesday, while the Lithuania will face Serbia, who are 4 – 1 in the tournament.

Game Highlights

Gilas Pilipinas defeated China for their first win in the Classification round of the FIBA World Cup 2023

September 3, 2023

The Philippine national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, secured a rousing and convincing win against China in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. The game was held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on September 2, 2023. The Philippines capped off its World Cup campaign with a 1-4 win-loss slate.

The game was close in teh first half of the game, with neither team able to pull away. But in the 3rd quarter, led by Jordan Clarkson, Rhenz Abando and Dwight Ramos, Gilas was able to build a 23 point cushion by the end of 3rd qtr and led by as many as 25 points at 5:19 mark of the 4th quarter, China tried to catch up but the game was already decided at that point. The trio scored a total 59 points.

Jordan Clarkson had 34 points, two boards, and three dimes while Rhenz Abando contributed 14 markers and 5 rebs. Dwight Ramos chipped in 11 pts, 5 rebs and 4 assists. On the otherhand, Kyle Anderson (Kaier Li) led the Chinese team with 17 points, 9 reds and 5 assists while Zhenlin Zhang added 13 pts, 3 rebs.

The victory against China has lifted the Philippines to 24th place in the 2023 FIBA World Cup rankings and secure a slot for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT). which is the “16 following next best-ranked teams” category or the next best 16 placers in the World Cup that have not secured a place in the Olympics.

Highlights

The FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament, abbreviated as FIBA World OQT, and formerly known as the FIBA Pre-Olympic Basketball Tournament, is the last qualifying tournament for the Olympic Basketball Tournament. The best non-champions from the different FIBA World zones qualify for the tournament and compete for the last remaining berths in the Summer Olympic Games.

Compared to the World Cup Tournament, the Olympic Qualifying Tournament will be a more difficult competition, since Philippines will face other teams from different continents including Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Another loss by Gilas Pilipinas to Angola in FIBA World Cup 2023 Qualifiers (70-80)

August 29, 2023

The Philippines men’s national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, lost to Angola, 80-70, in their FIBA World Cup 2023 Asian Qualifiers game on Sunday, August 27th at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. This defeat left Gilas Pilipinas winless in Group A of the tournament.

Gilas Pilipinas had a strong start to the game, taking a 19-12 lead after the first quarter. However, Angola responded with a strong second quarter, outscoring Gilas Pilipinas 24-14 to take a 36-33 lead at halftime.

Angola continued to control the game with their defense in the second half, and they extended their lead to as many as 16 points in the fourth quarter with 3:39 remaining in the game. Gilas Pilipinas made a late comeback attempt, but they could not get closer than 5 points but there was only 1:12 remaining in the game.

Gilas Pilipinas had a chance to clinch their first FIBA World Cup win in nearly a decade, but they were unable to overcome Angola’s strong defense. The game was expected to be a dream celebration for Gilas Pilipinas in front of a wild, sold-out crowd, but it turned into a nightmare.

Jordan Clarkson led Gilas Pilipinas with 21 points, 3 rebs and 7 assists, but he shot just 7-of-22 from the field and -14 in the plus/minus column. Kai Sotto added 8 points and 6 rebounds, and Dwight Ramos had 8 points.

On the Angola side, Gerson Goncalves led team with 17 points and 6 rebs, and Gerson Domingos added 15 points and 7 assists. Bruno Fernando, who had an emphatic dunk against Clarkson early in the game, added 14 points and 7 rebounds.

You can checkout the Statsheet of Gilas Pilipinas below;

This game was crucial for Gilas Pilipinas as they were looking to advance to the next round of the tournament. Unfortunately, they were unable to secure a win against Angola. Despite this setback, Gilas Pilipinas remained determined to bounce back in their next game against Italy.

Gilas Pilipinas Falls to Dominican Republic in FIBA World Cup 2023 Opener (87-81)

August 26, 2023

Gilas Pilipinas fell to the Dominican Republic, 87-81, in their opening game of the FIBA World Cup 2023 at the Philippines Arena in Bulacan on Friday, August 25, 2023.

It was a close game in first three quarters of the game, the Philippines got off to a hot start, falling behind Dominican Republic by 4 pts at the end of first quarter. Gilas made a run in the 2nd qtr that ended in a deadlock at 42 – 42.

The Dominican Republic ended the 3rd qtr leading by 2 behind the dominant game of Jean Montero and Karl-Anthony Towns, who scored a team high 26 points and 10 rebs.

The Philippines tried to rally in the last qtr but a late run by the Dominican Republic and Jordan Clarkson fouling out in the final quarter denied the Philippines an upset in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Clarkson finished with 28 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists before fouling out. The final score was 87-81 in favor of the Dominican Republic.

Junmar Fajardo led the Pinoys with 16 pts and 7 rebs, followed by Dwight Ramos with 13 pts, 6 rebs and two assists.

The loss was a tough one for Gilas Pilipinas, since Gilas was right there to take win, but they will have a chance to bounce back when they face Angola on Sunday, Aug 27, 2023 at the Arena Coliseum.

The Scores
Dominican Republic 87 – Towns 26, Liz 18. Feliz 12, Delgado 6, Montero 6, Figueroa 5, Peña 5, Vargas 5, Mendoza 2, Quiñones 2, Solano 0.

Philippines 81 – Clarkson 28, Fajardo 16, Ramos 13, Edu 7, Pogoy 6, Thompson 5, Abando 2, Aguilar 2, Ravena 2, Malonzo 0, Sotto 0.

Quarters: 22-18, 42-42, 66-64, 87-81.

SBP official announce the 12-man roster of Gilas Pilipinas for the 2023 FIBA World Cup

August 24, 2023
SBP official announce the 12-man roster of Gilas Pilipinas for the 2023 FIBA World Cup

It’s official, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announce the final 12-man roster of Gilas Pilipinas that will compete for the Group A of 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Bellow is the full text of SBP’s official announcement;

This is the official 12-man lineup of Gilas Pilipinas Men for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023:

  • Rhenz Abando
  • Japeth Aguilar
  • Jordan Clarkson
  • AJ Edu
  • June Mar Fajardo
  • Jamie Malonzo
  • CJ Perez
  • Roger Pogoy
  • Dwight Ramos
  • Kiefer Ravena
  • Kai Sotto
  • Scottie Thompson

Coaches:

  • Vincent “Chot” Reyes (head coach)
  • Tim Cone (assistant coach)
  • Jong Uichico (assistant coach)

SBP also made the announcement in X, formerly twitter.

Full schedule of the First Round (Group Phase) of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023

August 23, 2023

If you want to know when and where the games of your favorite team, then you can checkeout the full schedule of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. The tournament will be from August 25th to September 10th, games will be held simultaneous in all 4 locations; Smart Araneta and MOA Arena for the Philippine leg, then in Okinawa Arena in Japan and Indonesia Arena in Jakarta Indonesia. There will be 8 games a day until the Final phase of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, were there will only be two games per day and every games will be held at the MOA Arena.

GROUP PHASE – 1ST ROUND

August 25 – 8 Games (Opening Day)

Philippine Arena (Philippines)
– Angola vs Italy – 16:00 local time
– Dominican Republic vs Philippines – 20:00 local time

MOA Arena (Philippines)
– Mexico vs Montenegro – 16:45 local time
– Egypt – Lithuania – 20:30 local time

Okinawa Arena (Japan)
– Finland vs Australia – 17:00 local time
– Germany vs Japan – 21:10 local time

Indonesia Arena (Indonesia)
– Latvia vs Lebanon – 16:15 local time
– Canada vs France – 20:30 local time

August 26 – 8 Games

Araneta Coliseum (Philippines)
– South Sudan vs Puerto Rico – 16:00 local time
– Serbia vs China – 20:00 local time

MOA Arena (Philippines)
– Jordan vs Greece – 16:45 local time
– United States – New Zealand – 20:40 local time

Okinawa Arena (Japan)
– Cape Verde vs Georgia – 17:00 local time
– Slovenia vs Venezuela – 20:30 local time

Indonesia Arena (Indonesia)
– Iran vs Brazil – 16:45 local time
Spain vs Cote d’Ivoire – 20:30 local time

August 27 – 8 Games

Araneta Coliseum (Philippines)
– Italy vs Dominican Republic – 16:00 local time
– Philippines vs Angola – 20:00 local time

MOA Arena (Philippines)
– Montenegro vs Egypt – 16:45 local time
– Lithuania vs Mexico – 20:40 local time

Okinawa Arena (Japan)
– Australia vs Germany – 17:00 local time
– Japan vs Finland – 21:10 local time

Indonesia Arena (Indonesia)
– Lebanon vs Canada – 16:45 local time
– France vs Latvia – 20:30 local time

August 28 – 8 Games

Araneta Coliseum (Philippines)
– China vs South Sudan – 16:00 local time
– Puerto Rico vs Serbia – 20:00 local time

MOA Arena (Philippines)
– New Zealand vs Jordan – 16:45 local time
– Greece vs United States – 20:40 local time

Okinawa Arena (Japan)
– Venezuela vs Cape Verde – 17:00 local time
– Georgia vs Slovenia – 21:10 local time

Indonesia Arena (Indonesia)
– Cote d’Ivoire vs Iran – 16:45 local time
– Brazil vs Spain – 20:30 local time

August 29 – 8 Games

Araneta Coliseum (Philippines)
– Angola vs Dominican Republic – 16:00 local time
– Philippines vs Italy – 20:00 local time

MOA Arena (Philippines)
– Egypt vs Mexico – 16:45 local time
– Montenegro vs Lithuania – 20:30 local time

Okinawa Arena (Japan)
– Germany vs Finland – 17:00 local time
– Australia vs Japan – 21:10 local time

Indonesia Arena (Indonesia)
– Lebanon vs France – 16:45 local time
– Canada vs Latvia – 20:30 local time

August 30 – 8 Games

Araneta Coliseum (Philippines)
– South Sudan vs Serbia – 16:00 local time
– China vs Puerto Rico – 20:00 local time

MOA Arena (Philippines)
– United States vs Jordan – 16:45 local time
– Greece vs New Zealand – 20:40 local time

Okinawa Arena (Japan)
– Georgia vs Venezuela – 17:00 local time
– Slovenia vs Cape Verde – 21:10 local time

Indonesia Arena (Indonesia)
– Cote d’Ivoire vs Brazil – 16:45 local time
– Iran vs Spain – 20:30 local time

Games for the Second Round (Classification 17-32) will be determine after the last game of the First Round – Group Phase.

This is Gilas Pilipinas’ final lineup for the Group A FIBA World Cup 2023

August 23, 2023

We are just days before the opening games of the Group A of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 in the Philippine Arena, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has finalized their 12-man roster of Gilas Pilipinas for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

The 12-man roster of Gilas Pilipinas is composed of five FIBA World Cup returnees and seven first-timers. NBA veteran Jordan Clarkson will lead the squad. World Cup returnees June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Kiefer Ravena, CJ Perez, and Roger Pogoy, they represented the country in the previous FIBA World Cup in China four years ago.

World Cup first-timers Kai Sotto, Dwight Ramos, Scottie Thompson, AJ Edu, Jamie Malonzo, and Rhenz Abando will complete the squad. The staff is compose of Head Coach Chot Reyes with assistant coaches Tim Cone, Jong Uichico, Josh Reyes.

Four players were cut from the team after a rigorous two-month training: Chris Newsome, Bobby Ray Parks Jr., Thirdy Ravena and Calvin Oftana.

Gilas Pilipinas will face Dominican Republic, Angola and Italy on Aug. 25, 27 and 29 respectively. The top three teams in each group advanced to the second round. You can find the team groupings here.

Goodies and free rides await fans at FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 opening day

August 21, 2023

The 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup is just five-days away, and fans are gearing up for the big event. The opening day of the tournament will be held at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan on August 25, 2023, and organizers are offering a number of freebies and rides to fans who will be attending.

One of the highlights of the opening day festivities is the free Jollibee Cheesy Yumburger that will be given to all ticket-holders. Fans in the different sections will also receive free FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 merchandise, such as scarves, fan clappers, and rally towels. A special LED wristbands will also be distributed, to allow everyone in the arena to be part of a special lights show that will take place.

In addition to the freebies, fans will also be able to enjoy free rides to and from the Philippine Arena. The SBP has partnered with the Department of Transportation to provide free point-to-point (P2P) shuttle buses from different points in Metro Manila. Tournament organizers have arranged to deploy 400 49-seater premium grade airconditioned buses from 12 strategic take-off points, namely, the PITX Bus Terminal, Mall of Asia Arena, One Ayala Bus Terminal, BGC Market Market Bus Terminal, SM Megamall, Araneta City, Trinoma, SM North, Clover Leaf Ayala Mall Bus Terminal, SM Baliuag, SM Pampanga, and SM Clark, to transport fans to the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

Opening games of the Group A action in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will be between Angola against powerhouse Italy, followed by home team Gilas Pilipinas taking on the Dominican Republic at 8pm.

Source: SBP

Kai Sotto Cleared to Play for Gilas Pilipinas in FIBA World Cup 2023

August 15, 2023

Kai Sotto, the 7-foot-3 center who is considered to be one of the Philippines’ best basketball prospects, has been cleared to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the upcoming FIBA World Cup 2023 in Manila.

Sotto had been sidelined with a back injury that he suffered during his stint in the NBA Summer League. He was initially ruled out of the World Cup, but he has since made a full recovery and has been practicing with Gilas Pilipinas to get back in playing shape.

“Our doctors spoke to his doctors and he’s been cleared to play. So that’s good news,” Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al Panlilio said during the special PSA Forum on Tuesday at the Meralco headquarters in Ortigas.

Sotto’s addition to the Gilas Pilipinas roster is a major boost for the team. He is a physical presence in the paint and he has a good shooting touch. He is also a good passer and rebounder.

Gilas Pilipinas is in Group A of the FIBA World Cup, along with Dominican Republic, Italy, and Angola. The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will take place from August 25 to September 10 in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia.

Sotto’s participation in the World Cup is a major step in his basketball career. He is hoping to help Gilas Pilipinas make a deep run in the tournament and he is also hoping to attract the attention of NBA scouts.

Sotto’s clearance to play is a major boost for Gilas Pilipinas’ chances of success in the World Cup. He is a talented player who has the potential to make a big impact on the team. With Sotto in the lineup, Gilas Pilipinas will be a more dangerous team.

Dirk Nowitzki, Tony Parker, Pau Gasol, Dwyane Wade and the rest of Class of 2023 Inducted into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

August 15, 2023

It official, Dirk Nowitzki, Tony Parker, Pau Gasol and Dwyane Wade are officially HOFers, since they have been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame with the rest of the Class of 2023.

The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inducted its Class of 2023 on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Symphony Hall in Springfield, Massachusetts. The class included five players, six coaches, and the 1976 U.S. Olympic women’s team.

The inducted players are:

  • Dwyane Wade, a 13-time All-Star and three-time NBA champion who spent majority of his entire career with the Miami Heat. He also won NBA Finals MVP (2006) and NBA All-Star Game MVP (2010)

  • Dirk Nowitzki, a 14-time All-Star and one-time NBA champion and Finals MVP (2011) who spent his entire 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks. He also member of the 50–40–90 club in 2007.

  • Pau Gasol, a six-time All-Star who won two NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers with Kobe Bryant and took home the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2002.

  • Tony Parker, a four-time NBA champion who spent his entire 18-year career with the San Antonio Spurs. He is also NBA Finals MVP (2007) and 6-time NBA All-Star.

  • Becky Hammon, a six-time WNBA All-Star who won the WNBA championships with the Las Vegas Aces and named as WNBA Coach of the Year in 2022.

The inducted coaches are:

  • Gregg Popovich, a five-time NBA champion as the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs and considered as the winningest coach in NBA history with a 1364-759 record. He is also a three-time NBA Coach of the Year in 2003, 2012 and 2014.

  • Jim Valvano, a two-time champion for both national and regular season at North Carolina State who is best known for his “Never Give Up” speech in the 1983 NCAA championship game. He died at age 47 on April 28, 1993, less than two months after his famous ESPY speech, following a nearly year long battle with cancer of unknown origin.
  • Gene Keady, a seven-time Big Ten coach of the year at Purdue and considered as the winningest coach in Big Ten history.
  • Gary Blair, he lead the Texas A&M to a NCAA national championship in 2011 and listed in the top 35 of the all-time winningest NCAA Division I women’s basketball coaches, and he is one of the few coaches to guide three different schools to national rankings and NCAA Tournament berths.
  • Gene Bess, led Three Rivers to the junior college national championship and the first college basketball coach to reach 1,000 wins in college basketball history.

The 1976 U.S. Olympic women’s team was inducted as a team. The team won the gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, becoming the first women’s basketball team to win an Olympic gold medal. The induction ceremony was attended by over 7,000 fans. The inductees were all given a warm welcome and received a standing ovation from the crowd.

Team USA roster for the coming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023

August 9, 2023

Team USA is included in GROUP C that will play in Manila for the first round of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 in the Philippines.

Below are the Team USA Roster and their schedules of their exhibition games, and their three first-round games in the Philippines.

Team USA roster

  • Paolo Banchero, Forward, Orlando Magic
  • Mikal Bridges, Forward, Brooklyn Nets
  • Jalen Brunson, Guard, New York Knicks
  • Anthony Edwards, Guard, Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Tyrese Haliburton, Guard, Indiana Pacers
  • Josh Hart, Guard, New York Knicks
  • Brandon Ingram, Forward, New Orleans Pelicans
  • Jaren Jackson Jr., Center, Memphis Grizzlies
  • Cam Johnson, Forward, Brooklyn Nets
  • Walker Kessler, Center, Utah Jazz
  • Bobby Portis, Forward, Milwaukee Bucks
  • Austin Reaves, Guard, Los Angeles Lakers

Coaches: Steve Kerr (Golden State), Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat), Tyronn Lue (LA Clippers), Mark Few (Gonzaga University)

Team USA schedule


Exhibition Games

  • Team USA 117, Puerto Rico 74 – done
  • Aug. 12 vs. Slovenia in Malaga, Spain
  • Aug. 13 vs. Spain in Malaga, Spain
  • Aug. 18 vs. Greece in Abu Dhabi, UAE
  • Aug. 20 vs. Germany in Abu Dhabi, UAE

FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup 2023 First Round

  • Aug. 26 vs. New Zealand, 8:40 a.m. ET
  • Aug. 28 vs. Greece, 8:40 a.m. ET
  • Aug. 30 vs. Jordan, 4:40 a.m. ET

Cignal and Smart own the broadcast rights for FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup 2023, games for Group C will be held at the MOA Arena.

Golf: Warriors Steph Curry make a hole-in-one at American Century Golf Championship

July 16, 2023

GSW Star Steph Curry already cemented himself as the Greatest Shooter in Basketball and it looks like being a shooter is not only in the basketball court but also in the golf course.

At the American Century Golf Championship, Steph Curry made a hole-in-one on the par-three seventh hole at the American Century Championship on Saturday. It bounced once on the green and into the hold for the 4-time NBA Champ and tournament leader, he sprinted down the 152-yard hole in excitement after the shot.

The day before, Steph also made a difficult putt shot where the ball curve rolls across the green as it curves to the hole.

Curry later revealed that this is his second hole-in-one.

Fellow NBA star Lebron James reacted to Curry’s amazing shot.

Curry’s hole in one made him the leader of the tournament and could take home this year’s American Century Golf Championship.

Kai Sotto finally played in the 2023 NBA Summer League

July 15, 2023

After receiving a DNP in the first 3 games, Kai Sotto finally played his first game in the NBA Summer League against the Portland Trail Blazers.

In his first game in the NBA Summer League, 7’3″ Kai Sotto made the most of his 13 mins play time by scoring 6 pts, 4 rebs, 1 assists and 3 blocks.

Sotto entered the game at the start of the 2nd qtr, replacing Robert Baker. Even though he did not score, Sotto was active on the defense blocking a Shaedon Sharpe layup and a couple of defensive rebounds. Kai Sotto made his first-ever basket on a putback with less than a minute to go in the 3rd.

In the 4th, he made a 14-foot jumper an assist from Quinndary Weatherspoon and a 2-foot dunk from a Tyger Campbell assists. An assists to Quinndary Weatherspoon then blocked a 6-foot hook shot by Rayan Rupert. Orlando Magic ended the Summer League with a 0 – 4 standing. Orlando still have a consolation game on Sunday against the Boston Celtics and hopefully Kai Sotto will have a much better outing than this one.

Another DNP for Kai Sotto in a loss to the Indian Pacers (108 – 85)

July 11, 2023

It was another disappointment for Filipino fans who went to the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas on Tuesday morning, Manila time, to see Kai Sotto in action. Instead, the 7-foot-3 Hiroshima Dragonflies center was benched once more in a loss to the Pacers.

The Orlando coaching staff once again gave priority to contracted players and draft picks though at the 2:22 mark in the 2nd qtr, fans can be heared chanting “We Want Sotto!” The game was decided in the middle of the second qtr, where the Pacers are enjoying a 17-pt lead.

Kai Sotto will have 2 more games for his NBA Summer League debut; July 12th facing the New York Knicks and on July 13th against the Portland Trail Blazers. Sotto was also a DNP in the first game against the Detroit Pistons.

NBA announces that there will be an In-Season Tournament this 2023-24 season

July 10, 2023

NBA just announced that they will be an In-Season Tournament this season. The tournament is structured similar to the FIBA Tournament where there will be a group competition and knockout rounds. The In-Season Tournament will start on Friday, Nov. 3 in NBA team markets and the Semifinals (Thursday, Dec. 7) and Championship (Saturday, Dec. 9) will be held at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

“We are excited to introduce the NBA In-Season Tournament as an opportunity to further enhance and innovate around our season structure,” said Joe Dumars, NBA Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. “With the addition of this new marquee event on the NBA calendar, we are focused on providing players and teams with another competition to win, engaging fans in a different way and driving further interest in the early portion of the regular-season schedule.”

NBA also announced the groupings for the In-Season Tournament, there will be 3 Group for each conference that will have 5 teams for each groupings. NBA said that groupings are randomly drawn within their conference based on win-loss records from the 2022-23 regular season.

Eastern Conference

  • East A: Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, Indiana Pacers, Detroit Pistons
  • East B: Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, Miami Heat, Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets
  • East C: Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic

Western Conference

  • West A: Memphis Grizzlies, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Lakers, Utah Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers
  • West B: Denver Nuggets, LA Clippers, New Orleans Pelicans, Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets
  • West C: Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs

In the “Group Play“, each team will play four designated Group Play games – one game against each opponent in its group, with two games at home and two on the road – on “Tournament Nights,” which will take place every Tuesday and Friday from Nov. 3-28 (with the exception of Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 7, when no games will be played).

The two teams with the best record in their respective groups will advance the the “Knockout Rounds” with the addition of two wild cards (the team from each conference with the best record in Group Play games that finished second in its group). The Knockout Rounds will consist of single-elimination games in the Quarterfinals (played in NBA team markets on Monday, Dec. 4 and Tuesday, Dec. 5) and Semifinals and Championship (played in Las Vegas on Dec. 7 and Dec. 9, respectively). The Knockout teams will compete for a prize pool and the new In-Season Tournament trophy, the NBA Cup.

Below is the In-Season Tournament prize pool will be allocated to the players on the teams that participate in the Knockout Rounds as follows:

  • Players on winning team of Championship: $500,000 each
  • Players on losing team of Championship: $200,000 each
  • Players on losing team of Semifinals: $100,000 each
  • Players on losing team of Quarterfinals: $50,000 each

At the end of the In-Season Tournament, there will be the Most Valuable Player of the In-Season Tournament and the All-Tournament Team. Selection will be based on the players’ performance in both Group Play and the Knockout Rounds.

The In-Season Tournament will count toward the regular-season standings except the Championship. Each team will continue to play 82 regular-season games in the 2023-24 season, including those games that are part of Group Play and the Knockout Rounds.

Here’s the video that NBA released explaining the In-Season Tournament;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fT1Vk286308

Kai Sotto is a DNP in the Magic – Piston Game at the NBA Summer League

July 9, 2023

Filipino fans need to wait a bit longer for them to see Kai Sotto for his NBA Summer League debut, since he was a DNP “did not play – coach’s decision” in the Magic – Piston Game at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas on Sunday, Manila time.

Sotto is suiting up for the Orlando Magic but did not play against the Detroit Pistons, who fielded Ausar Thompson, a top 5 draft pick, with 2nd year Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey, as well as a former GSW Top 2 Pick James Wiseman.

Kai Sotto and the Orlando Magics have 3 more games for the NBA Summer League; on July 10th against the Indiana Pacers; July 12th facing the New York Knicks and on July 13th against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Chris Paul traded to Golden State Warriors for Jordan Poole and Draft Picks

June 24, 2023

After being traded to the Washington Wizard for Bradley Beal, Chris Paul is yet again part of another trade with the Golden State Warriors, that will send Jordan Poole, Ryan Rollins and two draft picks to the Wizards.

This was reported by ESPN Adrian Wojnarowski and Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Warriors receive:

  • Chris Paul

Wizards receive:

  • Jordan Poole
  • Ryan Rollins
  • 2030 first-round pick (protected)
  • 2027 second-round pick

Stylistically, Paul plays a slower kind of basketball, which is different style from the the “fast pace and spaced the floor” that the Warriors are playing. Also, it does not address the “size” factor that the GSW need in order to content in the West, specially with now NBA Champs Denver Nuggets.

If Golden State does keep Chris Paul for the season, they will have at least 3 months to retool and fit Paul into their system or the Warriors to adapt to CP3’s kind of the basketball.

Source: NBA

Complete 2023 NBA Draft Results

June 24, 2023

NBA just concluded the 77th edition of NBA draft last Thursday, June 22, 2023, held in Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. As projected the top 3 are Victor Wembanyama was drafted first, then Brandon Miller followed by Scoot Henderson, they’re drafted by San Antonio Spurs, Charlotte Hornets and Portland Trail Blazers, respectively.

Here’s the complete draft results;

First Round

  1. Spurs draft Victor Wembanyama (Metropolitans 92)

  2. Hornets draft Brandon Miller (Alabama)

  3. Blazers draft Scoot Henderson (G League Ignite)

  4. Rockets draft Amen Thompson (Overtime Elite)

  5. Pistons draft Ausar Thompson (Overtime Elite)

  6. Magic draft Anthony Black (Arkansas)

  7. Pacers draft Bilal Coulibaly (Metropolitans 92) – Traded to Wizards

  8. Wizards draft Jarace Walker (Houston) – Traded to Pacers

  9. Jazz draft Taylor Hendricks (UCF)

  10. Mavericks draft Cason Wallace (Kentucky) – Traded to Thunder

  11. Magic draft Jett Howard (Michigan)

  12. Thunder draft Dereck Lively II (Duke) – Traded to Mavericks

  13. Raptors draft Gradey Dick (Kansas)

  14. Pelicans draft Jordan Hawkins (Connecticut)

  15. Hawks draft Kobe Bufkin (Michigan)

  16. Jazz draft Keyonte George (Baylor)

  17. Lakers draft Jalen Hood-Schifino (Indiana)

  18. Heat draft Jaime Jaquez Jr. (UCLA)

  19. Warriors draft Brandin Podziemski (Santa Clara)

  20. Rockets draft Cam Whitmore (Villanova)

  21. Nets draft Noah Clowney (Alabama)

  22. Nets draft Dariq Whitehead (Duke)

  23. Blazers draft Kris Murray (Iowa)

  24. Kings draft Olivier-Maxence Prosper (Marquette) – Traded to Mavericks

  25. Grizzlies draft Marcus Sasser (Houston) – Traded to Pistons

  26. Pacers draft Ben Sheppard (Belmont)

  27. Hornets draft Nick Smith Jr. (Arkansas)

  28. Jazz draft Brice Sensabaugh (Ohio State)

  29. Pacers draft Julian Strawther (Gonzaga) – Traded to Nuggets

  30. LA Clippers draft Kobe Brown (Missouri)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeXPv4cvBko

Second Round

  1. Pistons draft James Nnaji (FC Barcelona) – Reportedly traded to Hornets (via Celtics)

  2. Pacers draft Jalen Pickett (Penn State)– Traded to Nuggets

  3. Spurs draft Leonard Miller (G League Ignite) – Traded to Timberwolves

  4. Hornets draft Colby Jones (Xavier) – Reportedly traded to Kings

  5. Celtics draft Julian Phillips (Tennessee) – Traded to Bulls (via Wizards)

  6. Magic draft Andre Jackson Jr. (Connecticut) – Traded to Bucks

  7. Thunder draft Hunter Tyson (Clemson) – Traded to Nuggets

  8. Kings draft Jordan Walsh (Arkansas) – Traded to Celtics

  9. Hornets draft Mouhamed Gueye (Washington State) – Traded to Hawks (via Celtics)

  10. Nuggets draft Maxwell Lewis (Pepperdine) – Traded to Lakers (via Pacers)

  11. Hornets draft Amari Bailey (UCLA)

  12. Wizards draft Tristan Vukcevic (Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade)

  13. Blazers draft Rayan Rupert (NZ Breakers)

  14. Spurs draft Sidy Cissoko (G League Ignite)

  15. Grizzlies draft Gregory Jackson II (South Carolina)

  16. Hawks draft Seth Lundy (Penn State)

  17. Lakers draft Mojave King (G League Ignite) – Traded to Pacers

  18. Clippers draft Jordan Miller (Miami)

  19. Cavaliers draft Emoni Bates (Eastern Michigan)

  20. Thunder draft Keyontae Johnson (Kansas State)

  21. Nets draft Jalen Wilson (Kansas)

  22. Suns draft Toumani Camara (Dayton)

  23. Timberwolves draft Jaylen Clark (UCLA)

  24. Kings draft Jalen Slawson (Furman)

  25. Pacers draft Isaiah Wong (Miami)

  26. Grizzlies draft Tarik Biberovic (Fenerbahce Beko)

  27. Wizards draft Trayce Jackson-Davis (Indiana) – Traded to Warriors

  28. Bucks draft Chris Livingston (Kentucky)

Those that did not get drafted will be considered as undrafted players when teams sign them up.

Washington Superstar Bradley Beal headed to Phoenix Suns

June 19, 2023

Just barely into the offseason and just 3 days before the NBA Draft, we now have a blockbuster trade that will bring Wizard Superstar Bradley Beal going to Phoenix Suns, with guard Jordan Goodwin. Suns in turn will send Chris Paul, Landry Shamet, multiple second-round picks and pick swaps to Wizards.

The deal became possible after Beal waived his “no-trade” clause in his contract. This was reported by ESPN Senior NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the deal will take a few of days to be finalized.

The trade will form another Durant-lead “Super team” with Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, with Deandre Ayton as the Suns top players. The trade will definitely affect the depth of the team which was diminished when the Suns traded for Durant last season.

Source: NBA

NBA suspends Ja Morant for 25 games

June 17, 2023

NBA just announced that Ja Morant will be suspended for 25 games without pay for conduct detrimental to the league. NBA added that Morant will “be required to meet certain conditions before he returns to play and will be ineligible to participate in any public league or team activities including preseason games.”

“Ja Morant’s decision to once again wield a firearm on social media is alarming and disconcerting given his similar conduct in March for which he was already suspended eight games,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement Friday. “The potential for other young people to emulate Ja’s conduct is particularly concerning. Under these circumstances, we believe a suspension of 25 games is appropriate and makes clear that engaging in reckless and irresponsible behavior with guns will not be tolerated.”

Here’s the official statement from NBA;

Last month, Morant was spotted with what seemed to be a gun on a friend’s Instagram page, which sparked the most recent NBA probe. In preparation for the NBA punishment, the Grizzlies had previously suspended Morant from team activities. Ja Morant on his part release a statement regarding his suspension;

At the same time, National Basketball Players Association find the suspension “excessive” with NBPA Executive Director Tamika Tremaglio’s statement on the suspension of Morant.

The Memphis Grizzlies also released their own statement, saying “We respect the league’s decision to suspend Ja Morant following this latest episode. Our standards as a league and team are clear, and we expect that all team personnel will adhere to them.”

It’s unclear how the suspension will affect the first 25 games of the Grizzlies, even though the team showed that they can hold on their own even without their star player.

Denver Nuggets are the 2023 NBA Champions, franchise’s first in the 47 years in the league

June 13, 2023

The Denver Nuggets just bagged their first NBA Championship after defeating the Miami Heat in a one of the lowest scoring game in the series (94-89).

In the first half, Miami was poised to take the series back home until Nikola Jokic carried the Nuggets with with 28 points and 16 rebounds. Jokic also took home the Bill Russell trophy as the NBA Finals MVP, which carry more weight than the 2021 and 2022 Regular Season MVP trophies.

Nuggets outlast the Heat in a game that’s more favorable to the style of Miami Heat, a low scoring, physical and close game, no team lead more than 2 points in the last 2 minutes of the game. It was in the closing minutes that made the difference; Bruce Brown got an offensive rebound and tip-in to give the Nuggets, then Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope capitalize on a Heat turnover and made two free throws each that sealed the title for Denver.

This is the first time in the franchise’s 47 years in the league and if they keep the core players, we may see the Nuggets making a deep run in every year, lead by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.

Denver Nuggets win Game 4 of the NBA Finals and One away to be the NBA Champions

June 10, 2023

Denver Nuggets are just one win away to be the NBA Champions as they defeat the resilient Miami Heat in Game 4 of the NBA Finals.

We can call Game 4 as the Aaron Gordon Game, as he lead the Nuggets in scoring with 27 points with 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Miami was able to limit Jokic to “just” 23 points, made 3 three-point shots, with 4 assists and grabbed 10 rebounds to help build a 13 point lead against the Heat entering the 4th quarter. Jokic got in foul trouble, committing his 5th foul when the Nuggets are up by 5 point and still 8:42 remaining in the game. Even though Jamal Murray was limited to just 15 point, he helped setup his teammates by dishing out 12 assists. Aside from Gordon, Bruce Brown was also a big factor off the bench, scoring 25 points with 4 rebs. Nuggets as a team shot 50% from the three-point line making 14 of their 28 shots.

Miami Heat are once again 1 – 3 in the NBA Finals and even with the odds against the team, Heat Leader Jimmy Butler is still positive that they can go back to Miami to at least have a chance to extend the series to a game 7. “Now we’re in a must-win situation, every single game — which we’re capable of.. It’s not impossible.” ,” Butler said in his postgame interview.

Miami Heat Head coach Erik Spoelstra echoed the same sentiments;

We have an incredibly competitive group. We’ve done everything the hard way and that’s the way it’s going to have to be done right now — again. And all we’re going to focus on is getting this thing back to the 305. Get this thing back to Miami. And things can shift very quickly.

Game 5 will be back Denver, Tuesday evening, where Jokic and Murray with the rest of the team have chance to end the series and celebrate in front of their home crowd.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas announces Gilas Pilipinas Men Pool for FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023

June 7, 2023

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) just announced the 21-man pool for the Gilas Pilipinas Mens basketball for FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. The pool is a mix of old and new, as well as PBA and international players.

Below is complete list of Gilas Pilipinas Men pool for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023:

  • Rhenz Abando
  • Japeth Aguilar
  • Justin Brownlee
  • Jordan Clarkson
  • AJ Edu
  • Poy Erram
  • Jordan Heading
  • June Mar Fajardo
  • Ange Kouame
  • Jamie Malonzo
  • Chris Newsome
  • Calvin Oftana
  • Bobby Ray Parks Jr.
  • CJ Perez
  • Roger Ray Pogoy
  • Dwight Ramos
  • Kiefer Ravena
  • Thirdy Ravena
  • Kai Sotto
  • Carl Tamayo
  • Scottie Thompson

The team will be lead by Gilas Headcoach Chot Reyes. FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will be held in 3 locations; Philippines, Indonesia and Japan. Gilas Pilipinas is part of Group A that includes Angola, Dominican Republic and Italy, their games will be in the Philippines at the Smart Araneta this 25th of August.

Miami Heat evens series via late run in the 4th Quarter (111- 108)

June 5, 2023

The Miami Heat evens up the series from a come from behind run against the Denver Nuggets, the team also overcome a 41-point game by Nikola Jokic, who also grabbed 11 rebounds. Miami Heat manage to comeback from a 15-pt deficit in the first half and hang-on to a 3-pts lead in the closing seconds of the game. Miami also made 48% of their 3-points shot and in contrast to game 1, the team shot 18 out of 20 from the free-throw line.

Both Butler and Adebayo scored 21 points apiece while Gabe Vincent lead the Heat in scoring with 23 points, on a 4 of 6 from beyond the three-point line. Miami also got a big lift from Duncan Robinson, who scored all of his 10-points in the 4th, and Max Strus with 14 points. Aside from the free-throw. three points made also made the different in game 2, since Miami 17 of their 35 three points.

Denver on the other hand got a monster 41-points game from Nikola Jokic but only 4 assists, he is also -11 in the plus/minus column. It’s not just Jokic, Kentavious Caldwell Pope (-14), Michael Porter Jr. (-15) and Jamal Murray (-2) are also negative in the plus/minus.

This is the first home game for the Nuggets since March 30, and Nuggets coach Michael Malone blame it on effort when asked about the game in the post game interview;

Games 3 and 4 will be in Miami and where injured Heat guard Tyler Herro is expected to make a return.

Miami Heat advances to the NBA Finals after defeating Boston Celtics in Game 7 of the 2023 NBA Eastern Conference

May 30, 2023

Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat will go to the NBA Finals after routing the Boston Celtics in Game 7 of the 2023 NBA Eastern Conference. The Heat closeout the series after Boston even the series by winning 3 games in a row after losing the first 3 games to Miami. It was a historic game for both team; Miami Heat trying to avoid to be the first team to lose a series after being up 3 – 0 and become the first 8th seed to defeat a 1st seed in order to advance to the NBA Finals; while Boston is trying to complete their historic run to be the first NBA team to overcome a 0 – 3 deficit in the NBA Postseason.

Boston leading scorer Jason Tatum was a non-factor in Game 7, after twisting his ankle on the very first play of the game and limping through 42 minutes. Tatum scored 14 points with 11 rebounds, while Jalen Brown had 19-pts, 8 rebs and 5 assists and Derrick White, the hero of Game 6, was the second leading scorer for the Celtics with his 18-points.

Miami Heat lead by Jimmy Butler and Caleb Martin with a combine 54 pts, Butler also have 7 rebs, 6 assists and steals, while Martin added 10 rebounds and made 4 of 6 three-pointers. Miami also received a big contribution from Bam Adebayo scoring 12 pots, 10 rebs and 1 block; Gabe Vincent scoring 10-points, Duncan Robinson adding 10-points. As a team Miami Heat made 50% of the three-points, while Boston, just like in Game 8 just make 21.4% of their three-points.

Aside from being a Conference Champs, Jimmy Butler was named East Conference MVP, who have been the leader of the team the whole season;

Miami Heat will face the Denver Nuggets who have been waiting for the winner of the series after sweeping the LA Lakers in the 2023 NBA Western Conference Finals.

Game 1 of the NBA finals will this 1st of June in Denver.

Boston Celtics forces Games 7 on White’s buzzer-beater tip-in (104-103)

May 28, 2023

The Boston Celtics are on the verge of making NBA history as they force a “winner-take-all” Game 7 against the Miami Heat after losing the first 3 games of the series.

Miami Heat are just 3 seconds away from their second trip to the NBA finals in 4 years, after Jimmy Butler made all 3 of his free-throw, but Derrick White had other plans instead as he beat the buzzer with a putback to force a Game 7 in the 2023 NBA Eastern Conference finals. Derrick White only scored 11 points on a 4 of 10, where 3 shots are from beyond the arc and his last and only field goal in the paint is the most important one. Jason Tatum once again lead the Boston Celtics, scoring 31 points with 12 rebs and 2 blocks. Jalen Brown has 26 points and Marcus Smart, whose shot is the one that White tipped-in, scored 21 points but -10 in the plus/minus department.

Despite the pressure that the team will face in Boston, Jimmy Butler is still confident that they will close the series in Boston. “We’ve got to go on the road and do something special.. “But we’ve got a special group.” Butler said in his postgame interview. Butler lead the Heat in scoring 24 points with 11 rebs and 8 assists, followed by Calen Martin’s 21 points, with 4 from the three-point line, and 15 rebs. Gabe Vincent, Bam Adebayo and Max Strus were also a big help in the game by scoring 15 pts, 11 pts and 10 points, respectively.

This was a game that Heat should have won, since Boston shot only 20% from beyond the arc, compare to the 46% from Miami. Game 7 will be in Boston, which could be a replay of last year’s East Conference Finals or we would be watching a totally different movie.

Boston Celtics routs Miami Heat to extend series to Game 6 (110 – 97)

May 27, 2023

In another shooting clinic, the Boston Celtics easily dispatch the Miami Heat at home to further extend the series to game 6 and putting more pressure to Jimmy Butler and company to close the series in Miami.

Four Boston players scored more than 20-pts with at least 1 three-points made. Derrick White lead the Celtics with 24-pts, making 6 of 8 three-points shot. Jason Tatum once again made sure that his teammates are in the game by dishing a team-high 11 assists, he also scored 21 pts and 8 rebs. Smart and Brown also chipped-in scoring 23 points and 21 points, respectively. As good as their offense, it was their defense that won the game for Boston. As a team the Boston Celtics made 13 steals, 37 rebounds and 4 blocks with just 9 turnover.

Jimmy Butler in his postgame interview said “We’re always going to stay positive, knowing that we can and we will win the series… We just have to close it out at home.” Butler scored 14 points with 5 rebs and 5 assist but was -24 in the plus/minus column. Miami’s leading scorer is Duncan Robinson with 18 points and 9 assists. Bam Adebayo added 16 points and eight rebounds but -15 in the plus/minus. Caleb Martin finished with 14 points, while Gabe Vincent sat out of the game due to an ankle injury.

Boston Celtics are two wins away in becoming the first NBA team to come back from a 0-3 deficit. Game 6 of Eastern Conference Finals will be at Miami this Saturday evening at the Kaseya Center.

Boston Celtics avoids sweeps as they defeat Miami Heat 116-99

May 24, 2023

The Boston Celtics lead by Jason Tatum to defeat the Miami Heat in Game 4 of the 2023 NBA Eastern Conference Finals.

It was a close game in the first 3qtrs but the Celtics blew the game wide-open in the final quarte to gain a 17 points lead which made sure that they will return to Boston for another chance to extend the series.

Six Boston players have scored in double-digits lead by Tatum scoring 34 points making 4 three-points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists; Brown’s 17-points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists and Derrick White with his 16-points, with 3 of 7 from the beyond the three-point line.

As a team the Miami Heat just shot 8 of 32 (25%) from the three-point line and just 18 assists, compare to Celtics’ 28 ast.

Miami’s leading scorer Jimmy Butler said “We’ve got to play like our backs are against the wall. But I think all year long, we’ve been better when we’ve had to do things the hard way.”

The series will now shift back to Boston where the Celtics will have another chance to extend the series.