Two big reasons why the Hornets beat the Spurs in game 5 tonight to go up 3-2 in the series:
1) Teaneck's own David West. 38 points on 16-25 shooting. 14 rebounds. 5 assists. 5 blocks. Only 2 turnovers. That's a serious stat line right there.
West played pretty terrible in the two games in San Antonio, and was obviously pissed off about it. He came out in this game determined to play better. At the same time, he didn't seem to be forcing the issue. The shots he took were in the offense, and it wasn't all mid-range jumpers, either.
It was an exhilarating performance by West, and one that I think shows that he'll be a force in the league for the next several years. When you can bounce back from adversity under the national spotlight, that shows character and the will to be a great player.
2) Finally knocking Tony Parker on his ass a few times. Tony Parker has been killing them by penetrating, getting to the paint, and either taking it to the basket or sucking in the defense and passing out to wide open shooters. The Hornets decided to beat on Parker a little bit more tonight, setting some tough screens on him, fouling him when he drove, and so on. And lo and behold, Tony Parker didn't go to the paint as often in the second half.
I seem to remember a time when Tony Parker was considered a bit soft. It's nice to see an NBA coach remember that, too.
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