The Golden State Warriors completed their sweep of the San Antonio Spurs last night. The Spurs simply did not have enough to win or battle with the Warriors with what they had left. The Warriors will be heading to the Finals for the third straight time. Their dominance has been remarkable, no team in the West has been able to slow them down or stop them.
Now, the Warriors will await their next opponent in the Finals to take the trophy, either the Celtics or the Cavaliers. Most likely the Cavs, as the Warriors are looking for revenge from last years defeat.
The warriors still remain undefeated with a 12-0 record heading into the NBA finals.
Game recap
The Warriors dominated the Spurs, being up by double digits by just the second quarter of the game. Curry dominated shooting threes and having a total of 36 points in the game. Durant, who the Spurs have had no answer for finished the game with 29 points and 12 rebounds.
Kyle Anderson on the Spurs although played well, the young player had 20 points, along with 6 rebounds and 4 steals. Pau Gasol had a decent game scoring 14 points and grabbing 9 boards. Dejounte Murray, the young player, showed promise and poise against the opponent. The player from Washington has a bright future in the NBA, just like Jonathon Simmons.
He is due to get a lot of money or go to another team for it.
Other players did not play so well. Aldridge struggled from the field shooting an abysmal 4 of 11 and Simmons who has played well the whole series only went 5 of 15 on field goals. Patty Mills equally struggled shooting 4 of 13, his future is uncertain with the team as he is set to be a free agent.
Injuries kill the Spur's chances
Spur fans are left to ponder what could have been for their team if their team was fully healthy. Injuries in this series have certainly played a role in the Spurs downfall. The Spurs were a favorite to win it all coming into the year, many believing that they had a good chance to stun the Warriors.
If these injuries did not occur, the Spurs could have given the Warriors a run for their money.
The injury to veteran Tony Parker was a crucial loss for the team. He was playing very well for them finding his shot up until the injury. On top of that, they lost a veteran presence.
The injury to Kawhi Leonard can not be stressed enough. The Spurs could not bounce back or win without him on the field. They lost greatness on both sides of the field with his streaky shooting and lockdown defense. A better defense that was greatly needed against the powerful Warriors.
The knee injury to David Lee was also another blow. They lost a great rotational player and one who was beginning to score well, finishing layups while getting fouled.
He added some energy that the Spurs desperately needed.
Manu Ginobili's standing ovation
Ginobili, an all-star had a great standing ovation last night with the fans. The fans showed great respect and determination in a blowout game. Many fans thanked him in utter applause for all that he has done for the great organization, taking on different roles for the team. He has always been a team player and just cares about winning. Manu has never embarrassed another teammate or blamed a loss on anybody else, he is a great competitor with a good demeanor.
Now it stands if he will retire or not. If he will hang up his shoes for good or not. Many players cheered for Ginobili, fully knowing the great role he has had in the NBA.
Even, Stephen Curry clapping before shooting a free throw to Durant showing him some respect during a postgame interview.
Ginobili finished the game with 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. The question remains of whether his time in the NBA is up.