The Spurs welcomed Gilbert Arenas and the Washington Wizards
to the AT&TCenter
last night with the return of point guard Tony Parker and perhaps their most
cohesive game of the season. Parker paced San Antonio
to the tune of 17 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds, sparking the Spurs to a
106-84 drubbing of the Wizards. At the start of this year's training camp, many
of the veteran Spurs talked about how this is now Parker's team. This was
evident in last night's contest as Parker efficiently quarterbacked the team's
offense, along the way reminding us that he remains the only Spur who can score
practically at will.
The much needed victory over the Wizards halted a three game
skid for the Spurs who have yet to win a game on the road. Seven of their next
nine contests will be played in San Antonio,
but with Manu Ginobili nursing by a groin injury, there will be challenges. Against
Washington, Coach Pop rolled out
a strong starting five consisting of Parker, Keith Bogans, Richard Jefferson,
Tim Duncan, and Antonio McDyess. If this lineup gets consistent minutes from
Coach Pop, look for the Spurs to tighten up their defense and string a few wins
together.
Next up for San Antonio
is a visit from heralded rookie Brandon Jennings and the Milwaukee Bucks. Jennings
made news last year by electing to skip a year in college to ball in Europe.
Now in his first season in the association, Jennings
has already dropped a double nickel and should be a handful for Parker and
sophomore standout George Hill. Expect solid performances from former Bucks RJ
and Keith Bogans who will be looking to impress against their former team.
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