So much for home court advantage!
Are Josh Smith and the Hawks ready to fight Dwyane Wade and the Heat to keep home court advantage? We're going to find out tonight at Philips Arena.
HAWKSVILLE - One by tragic one they fell Saturday.
Boston started it early, with a dazzling assist from Chicago rookie point guard Derrick Rose.
San Antonio kept it going, unable to keep the pace with an equally elderly … er, experienced Dallas team.
And Portland finished off the hat trick late last night, taken apart from start to finish by Houston’s Yao Ming and his crew.
So much for home court advantage, Hawks fans.
Your team has to come and play or all that hard work for home court could be gone in an instant if they allow Miami to steal the edge with win tonight in Game 1 at Philips Arena.
I’m not making any predictions and I’m certainly not trying to scare you (I’d think Saturday’s pillaging of home teams was sufficient), I’m only pointing out that there’s no time to rest for the home team.
Come out sluggish early all you want in the playoffs and see what happens.
Because if you don’t the Heat is thinking “steal Game 1 and turn this thing upside down” is a very real possibility, then you’re crazy. I know that’s all I’d be talking about to my team or teammates this morning.
THE REAL X-FACTOR?
I picked Michael Beasley. Two other writers I know are convinced it’s Flip Murray.
But might the true X-factor in this Hawks-Heat series be veteran Heat center Jermaine O’Neal?
My main man Israel Gutierrez of the Miami Herald made a case for just that with his story on O’Neal out this morning.
Having known JO for a number of years now, it wouldn’t surprise me one bit to see him rewind the clock a bit in this series and give Al Horford and the Hawks fits in the post.
His injury issues have certainly dealt a blow to his game compared to where he was when we were both in Indiana (I was writing and he was playing, of course). Back then he was in the conversation about the best big men in the league, a national team member and in the top three of three of the MVP race one year.
No doubt, times have changed. He’s been shuffled around from Indy to Toronto and then to Miami all in the past couple of years. Now that he’s got a chance to perform on the big stage again, after watching the playoffs the past couple of years, I can’t see him fading into the background in this situation.
COMING UP ROSES
The next time anyone wants to debate you about drafting an elite point guard over an elite big man, just mention the name Derrick Rose over and over and over again.
Like many others, I wrote before last year’s draft that he had to be the Bulls’ pick at No. 1 overall. And he did nothing throughout what is sure to be his Rookie of the Year campaign to change my mind. But watching him destroy the Celtics yesterday in Boston was beyond my wildest imagination for a point guard barely old enough to vote.
Rose did what he wanted to out there and proves my post-CP3 and Deron Williams theory that if there’s a transcendent point guard talent in any draft, you have to take him above any swingman or big man that excites you. The position is just too important in today’s game to ignore, particularly when you have a chance to get a young one that will play at an elite level on a rookie scale contract (as opposed to overpaying for one later, as the Hawks did once, when you consistently ignore point guard talent in the draft).
HAWKS IN SIX
At least one person in South Florida is willing to say it out loud and pick the Hawks to win this series against the Heat.
Greg Stoda of the Palm Beach Post made a strong case as to why Dwyane Wade and the Heat could pull the upset, only to trash that thought at the end by predicting the Hawks in six.
Mr. Stoda comes to the same conclusion my photo-taking colleague and Smyrna neighbor Mark Bradley came to days ago, when he made his own case for the Hawks to take this thing in six.
I haven’t expressed an opinion publicly about where I think this series is headed. But six games sounds like a careful and accurate approximation of where we’re going.
TIMES ARE CHANGING
In a chat with Hawks part owner Michael Gearon Jr. earlier this week, we visited on several topics about this team that have changed as the wins have piled up, relatively speaking, in each of the past two seasons. He said something interesting to me about one of the barometers he uses for the change is that his son’s friends are now wearing Hawks jerseys and not those of stars on other teams.
I can’t think of a more grassroots way of gauging whether or not your team has “arrived” on the local sports scene. The only Falcons game I’ve been to since I’ve lived here was against Pittsburgh a couple years back and I was stunned to see all the Steelers fans (in their jerseys) filing through the doors at the Georgia Dome, only to be told later that “that’s just Atlanta.”
Well, according to one of Gearon’s partners, the Hawks are turning the tables beyond the metro area.
“I’m hundreds of miles from Atlanta in a suburb of Washington called Gaithersburg,” Hawks part owner Bruce Levenson said by phone the same day I spoke with Gearon. “And earlier this year I was leaving this office to go to the airport. And I got about four blocks from here and there was a guy standing at the bus stop in a Josh Smith jersey and it was really shocking to see, but a pleasant shock, if there can be something like that.”
That’s not the only subtle (or not) change Levenson has noticed in the Hawks’ profile the past couple of years.
“I’m usually there an hour or an hour and half early for home game,” he said. “And in past years when we were playing teams like the Celtics or the Lakers there would be hundreds of people watching the visiting team warm up and nobody watching our team warm up. It was interesting to see that start to change the second half of this year. To see the fans coming together, watching our team warm up … it’s just the little baby steps that are encouraging.”
Indeed. I still get questions to this day about the “notoriously” bad home crowds that are supposed to be so common here. I can honestly say it’s gotten a lot better. Philips Arena might not be the Staples Center or TD Banknorth Garden just yet, but it’s no better or worse than a number of other venues around the league.
And I’m expecting the playoff posse to be out in full effect tonight. Hawks-Heat Game 1 at 8 p.m.
But we’ll be here all day.
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280 comments Add your comment
The Hawksta
April 19th, 2009
12:07 pm
I’m baaaack! Let’s baby! Game on fellas where ya’ll at!?
The Hawksta
April 19th, 2009
12:09 pm
I’m I too early? Still hungover from last night’s but whipping Houston put on Portland. Let’s go baby!
Ariose
April 19th, 2009
1:04 pm
I’m So Amped for this Game!!! Sekou, no need to worry, theres NO WAY after what transpired yesterday do the Hawks slip up and drop one at home…….In the end we MIGHT see a double digit victory…….just sayin’…
Ariose
April 19th, 2009
1:13 pm
So Who is the best Pointguard in theis years upcoming draft?
Da Real Real
April 19th, 2009
1:16 pm
I agree with you Ariose. I understand that there’s a chance for upset (that’s the reason why they play the game). I just think as a combined team that we’re better than the Heat, heck we went 3-1 against them this season, and if it wasn’t for a major melt down when we went down to Miami it could have possibly been 4-0. What’s the record going against those guys for the past 2 seasons or since we got Bibby??? I’ve been saying for a month now that if we were to match up against those guys we’d beat them in 6 and today, on game day, I’m sticking with that prediction. I’m not worried at all.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
1:26 pm
Ariose, don’t get it confused. Sekou qualified it as “transcedent PG”. Mike Conley was supposed to be the best PG in the ‘07 draft. He may eventually become a solid starter but not likely “transcedent”. And of course, we won’t be in a position to draft Rick Rubio (supposedly the best PG in this year’s draft).
Speaking of rookie PGs, Aaron Brooks didn’t look phased by his first NBA playoff game last night. His performance was quite impressive when you throw in the fact that he was performing in front of family in friends (dude went to school in the state). A ton of pressure to step up and he did exactly that. Of course, it helps when you have Yao treating the Portland bigs like they were middle high schoolers. Even Mutumbo was out there doing his thing last night. Let’s hope that Chalmers doesn’t follow the performance of Rose & Brooks and leads his team to a road victory in his first NBA game as a rookie.
Mychelfromatl
April 19th, 2009
1:35 pm
Let’s get this thang started!!!!!!!!!!
O'brien
April 19th, 2009
1:40 pm
The Hawks held home court against the Celtics last year, but there are more Miami/DWade fans in Atlanta than Celtics fans. Therefore, I think the Hawks need to come out and not fall behind.
I think the Hawks in 6.
SouthAfrican09
April 19th, 2009
1:52 pm
Wow, Gearon and Levenson might be the biggest idiots I’ve seen.
OMG MY SON HAS A HAWKS JERSEY NOW! WE HAVE FINALLY ARRIVED!
Fans are now watching the Hawks warm up? Was that the case when literally 1,000 people were waiting for Kobe’s autograph a few weeks ago before the game?
OMG I SAW A HAWKS JERSEY IN WASHINGTON D.C.! Big freaking deal. I’ve seen people wear Lamar Odom Clipper jerseys every day in Atlanta–are the Clippers now an elite team?
Please do not post this garbage our “owners” have to say. They obviously know nothing about this team, except Gearon’s smug *** who thinks he has this whole thing figured out by hiring a 30-year “veteran” GM who managed awful teams and whose only goal this year was to win 5 more games and make the playoffs
SouthAfrican09
April 19th, 2009
1:53 pm
How the heck can Levenson tell fans are watching our team warm up? Does he have binoculars from his courtside seat, and scour the entire arena, trying to look where our eyes are pointed?
SouthAfrican09
April 19th, 2009
1:55 pm
Hawks just need to get off to a good start and not get too selfish on the offensive end. SWITCH on every P&R, and give Mo and Duck huge minutes if you need. They haven’t played much for what seems like a month
calico
April 19th, 2009
2:06 pm
Paul Pierce missing the potential game winning free throw is sweet revenge for a hawks fan remember just a couple months ago paul held up the choke artist hand gesture when joe johnson missed the second free throw that would have tied the game versus the celtics and possibly sent it to overtime you gotta love it-we have to win this game 2night dont give miami any chance at winning in Atlanta.
nola hawk fan
April 19th, 2009
2:21 pm
Blog Z – is it a sell out tonight? God I hope so… I don’t want to hear those same nat’l writers come out and blast Atlanta. “they can’t sell out playoff baseball…and now basketball games”
If I wasn’t 500 miles south in N.O, i’d be there.
Ree Roe
April 19th, 2009
2:22 pm
Is Marvin starting tonight? And what is the Hawks official playoff roster? Go Hawks!
-Ree!
SouthAfrican09
April 19th, 2009
2:24 pm
Marv is starting.
I don’t think the game has sold out yet (I bought great seats on Friday). Game has not sold out.
AtlSouthside
April 19th, 2009
2:38 pm
Hawks need to come out with an attitude, and play this entire series with a chip on their shoulders. If D.Wade comes to the hole with all that “SportsCenter” stuff, I either want it thrown in the stands, or I want him fouled HARD. Joe Johnson needs to really take advantage of the physical advantage he has over Wade by posting him up and shooting over him (Jo-Jo’s fade-away is money).
As long as everyone on the Hawks plays their role, we can sweep Miami. Josh has to limit the amount of jumpshots he takes, and Bibby has to knock down some big 3-pointers to keep the Miami defense spread out.
All in All, I think Atlanta has too weapons for Miami, we just have to play smart ball, and not allow other players besides Wade to put up big numbers.
Dr. Warren
April 19th, 2009
2:42 pm
At the NBA store here in bball-crazy Shanghai, I recently asked (in Chinese) where their Hawks stuff was. I saw nearly every team’s t-shirts, shorts, and jerseys but theirs. A manager came out, and I was led to a glass case, whick contained 30 silver lighters, one with a small Hawks logo. Maybe the Hawks brand has not progressed as much as Gearon thinks.
gypsyjoe
April 19th, 2009
2:58 pm
Sekou,
I have a question. Does the Hawks have to set a playoff roster for each playoff series like Baseball and Football?
J.J.M.
April 19th, 2009
3:16 pm
i think hawks will start off slow but they will shake off the nerves and get it goin in the 2nd half.
Eric
April 19th, 2009
3:27 pm
It’s all mental for the Hawks, they are as talented as any top team in the league. Woodson is learning how to coach on the fly, but still makes critical mistakes that set this group back. My advise to Woody, don’t start Marvin over Evans, and play Mario West alot. Hawks should win this series in 6 or maybe 5.
Tech sucks
April 19th, 2009
3:37 pm
Hawks in 6.
AtlSouthside
April 19th, 2009
3:44 pm
Yea I agree West should get big minutes for defensive purposes. And Woody should allow Joe Johnson to take the first few shots for Atlanta.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
3:57 pm
i think Joe should take the first shot… its a must… get him and his confidence going early…
even better would be one of those patten Joe to Josh alley’s right after the ball is jumped… havent seen that one in a while…
"Big Baby" Davis
April 19th, 2009
4:09 pm
**calico**: Always great to see the look on Pierce’s face when karma bites him in the ass.
Sucker.
Ariose
April 19th, 2009
4:14 pm
Shannon Brown looks Real Good at tha PG spot for the Lakers. I told y’all not to sleep on that man….. I even suggested us plaing him at PG… Since he’s bigger he completely nullifies Derons size advantage.
keepin it real
April 19th, 2009
4:17 pm
In the cases of Boston and San Antonio, both teams are hampered by injuries to one of their Big Three. Not that it lessens the significance of the upsets yesterday or anything, but considering that the Hawks are mostly healthy I think it’s less likely they get upset. San Antonio in particular wasn’t really any better at home than on the road all season anyway, so it may not even make a difference to them.
I’ve always thought the most emphatic first shot the Hawks ever take is the one where the Hawks win the tip and immediately throw an alley-oop to Josh Smith. That’s about as strong a signal as you can give to the other team that you are going to attack the basket with your superior athletic ability all game.
When it comes to PGs in the draft though… can’t say I entirely agree with the logic there. In the years CP3, Deron Williams, and Derrick Rose entered the draft, there was no truly dominant big man to compete with them for draft position. Derrick Rose is a phenomenal player, no doubt. But would I take him over Dwight Howard or Yao Ming if they were in the same draft? Depends on my current roster, but probably not. If you look at the elite teams and championship teams in recent NBA history, sure there have been teams keyed by the success of their point guards, but there have been more teams keyed by the success of either one dominant big man or a group of big men who collectively dominated the boards and set the tone defensively.
All that said, if you are building a team from scratch and you have a top 3 pick you simply have to pick the best talent available regardless of position. If you reach for one particular position over another, you run the risk of having a Bowie/Jordan or Oden/Durant situation on your hands.
Ariose
April 19th, 2009
5:02 pm
No, I’ll tell you what the real tragdey was. Drafting Shelden Williams over Rudy Gay in 2006….
Mitch
April 19th, 2009
5:13 pm
I have one better than that Ariose, passing on Chris Paul and then signing his backup, Speedy Claxton…thats just plan sorry.
scottbravesfan
April 19th, 2009
5:52 pm
I hate to break it to Sekou, but it’s like that in every stadium the Steelers play in. Did you watch Monday Night Football last season when the Steelers played the Red Skins in DC? There were 30,000 terrible towels in the stadium that night. It’s like that everywhere they have a huge fan base and a ton of bandwagon fans. Most sports fans are terrible and usually just root for a team that is winning. That’s why you see so many Laker fans in Atlanta and across the country. That’s why you suddenly see a ton of Red Sox fans and Cubs fans the last few years across the country because it’s cool to like those franchises.
Also to the guy who said there were more Heat fans in Atlanta than Celtic fans, you are insane. There are a lot more Boston transplants and bandwagon Celtic fans in Atlanta than Heat fans. The Heat do not even have a large fan base and they barely draw flies to their own arena. I know black people have a tendency for some reason, to follow starts instead of a team but I doubt you are going to see that for the Heat.
Lacsho
April 19th, 2009
6:00 pm
I want to see JJ close out the quarters strong.
KJ
April 19th, 2009
7:02 pm
i doubt the hawks will come out flat in this game. From the interviews that I have read everyone realizes the importance of the first blow (so to speak) I believe that watching 3 home teams advantage go up in smoke yesterday did not fall on blind eyes and the boys(hawks) will be that much more focused when the tip goes off.
Sekou Smith
April 19th, 2009
7:05 pm
Inactive list for the Hawks tonight: Thomas Gardner, Randolph Morris and Acie Law IV. That means Speedy Claxton and Othello Hunter will be in uniform for Game 1.
And I’m aware that the Steelers have a nationwide fan base as do other teams like the Cowboys, Lakers, Celtics and Yankees. That’s just a reality around the country.
I just like to see the local fan base go crazy when their team is in the playoffs, sort of like the folks in Portland did all week and last night, before they got trounced at home by the Rockets. And like Hawks fans did last year here for those games against Boston.
That, to me, is what being a fan is all about.
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
7:17 pm
less than a hour left and i ready for game one. my bro is in sec 308. i wish i was there.. i hope josh takes his time in the lane and under control. i recall last year they tried to draw so charges on him..
alright hawks its time to put on for tha city!!! i think a lil shaved ice will do the trick tonight.. clumps on top of clumps of shaved ice baby..
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
7:18 pm
i expect the arena crowd to be just as raucous as last year… and even more come round 2 when QUEEN James comes through…!!!
as a native im used to big hometown representation in all leagues when we host a playoff game… but, u know given our latest sports history thats a rare happening…
LETS GO HAWKS…!!! LETS GO HAWKS…!!! LETS GO HAWKS…!!!
Iggy looks unstoppable in the open floor…
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
7:31 pm
Pre-game is on Fox Sports South.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
7:32 pm
Sorry, Fox Sports Network.
robert
April 19th, 2009
7:49 pm
Miami will come in and steal the first game.Heat wins in 6
NICK
April 19th, 2009
7:55 pm
IS THE GAME SOLD OUT TONIGHT?
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
7:55 pm
Looks like we may have a late start. Magic-76ers game may take another 20-30 minutes to play.
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
7:57 pm
yo sekou tell steve sam and 3d thanks for the calls and comments on the games..nothing like following the game in the big truck with their eyes and ears
KJ
April 19th, 2009
8:06 pm
the orlando game is pretty good. like i said in jeff’s blog, if philly can get this one i believe they will steal the series
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
8:13 pm
Bibby needs to pull some old school stuff on Chalmers.
I notice that nearly all, if not all of the playoff teams are running 8/9 deep at a MINIMUM, with some running 10 deep. Something to think about…
Uno-Ocho
April 19th, 2009
8:17 pm
Why the crap is Josh Smith shooting jumpers!!!???
Ed
April 19th, 2009
8:17 pm
It’s starting to look as if the Hawks were lucky not to draw the 76ers. What a shot by A.I.
Blast
April 19th, 2009
8:17 pm
That is why I didn’t want Hawks facing Philly in Round 1. They just took the 1st road game from Orlando.
Hawks Fan In New Orleans
April 19th, 2009
8:25 pm
Marvin Williams started off blazin’ why did Coach pull him out early???Sixers were very impressive.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
8:27 pm
MY BOY IS BACK… PLAYOFF JOE…!!
KJ
April 19th, 2009
8:33 pm
tight game so far
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
8:41 pm
Tight game indeed.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
8:44 pm
bull shyt refs… its the playoffs…!!!
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
8:45 pm
Marvin looking good…
kirkinga
April 19th, 2009
8:45 pm
Sixers have shown that it is not just teams missing injured superstars that lose at home.
Let’s hope the Hawks take notice and play accordingly.
Go Hawks!!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
8:46 pm
Were off to a good start. Kick some butt. Go Hawks.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
8:49 pm
wow… suspect calls out the gate… i know we get to the line more than them.. but geesh…
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
8:52 pm
We look very active, no one is standing around. Were using the bench so far. This bodes well for the 2nd half.
KJ
April 19th, 2009
8:52 pm
seems like the heat are trying to take advantage of zaza in the middle. he is going to have to get aggressive and give us some quality minutes.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
8:54 pm
With Wades offense he is also turning the ball over. Emberresing – leak in the roof.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
8:56 pm
KJ, your right. He isn’t perfect but needed. Jam by Josh. Wheeeeeeeee
Uno-Ocho
April 19th, 2009
8:57 pm
Sekou just got some face time on tnt!!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
8:59 pm
Hawks Defense energized. 10 pt lead. Crowd goes wild.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
8:59 pm
Lookin’ good in the ATL! We’re up 10, and Wade is not quite having the impact on the game he’d like to have right about now.
Where, oh where is dear ol’ Sam (and Rod)? Marvin sure looks good out there, and is helping us out big time.
Blast
April 19th, 2009
9:00 pm
High-flying stuff. Go hawks! Take it to Heat!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:00 pm
this is a great start… the fans are in it… the hawks are playing inspired and with high energy…!!!
Macaroni Tony
April 19th, 2009
9:00 pm
I see why the started MW over M.Evans. He’s off to a good start…
Let’s Go Hawks
Hawks Fan In New Orleans
April 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
Thanks Horford for relieving Zaza. The Heat was having their way with him in the paint.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:01 pm
foul him…!!! the hawks are going to have to get nasty…allowing easy layups… the heat are hammering us!!! make em earn it!!!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:04 pm
Josh with the playoff stroke from the line…
now thats what i use to from him at the line…
Blast
April 19th, 2009
9:06 pm
Josh Smith. Making free throws, man. What a game! So far, I think this is the best first round series. Philly Orlando was good, because the underdog won.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:06 pm
Marvin isn’t the only one that looks good. Josh may have jacked a 3 (and missed), but he’s hit all of his free throws and has 12 points. Nice!
kirkinga
April 19th, 2009
9:06 pm
You have to like how Josh and Al are playing on both ends of the floor. I hope Coach Woodson will go 8-9 deep tonight.
hawks fan from australia
April 19th, 2009
9:07 pm
lets get this win HAWKS! im listenin to this on hawks radio, stop whining dwade!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:08 pm
WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWEEEEEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:08 pm
GIVE EM WHAT THEY WANT…!!!
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:08 pm
Back-to-back jams by Josh. Lemme hear the hatas…..
Tell me that long lob doesn’t make the playoff highlights tonight!
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:09 pm
“You have to like how Josh and Al are playing on both ends of the floor. I hope Coach Woodson will go 8-9 deep tonight.”
AMEN!
KJ
April 19th, 2009
9:10 pm
WHOA! MAN O’ MAN! I knew we would get a couple of fast breaks but this is incredible! if we keep up this pressure we can break the will of these guys well before the 4th! LETS GO HAWKS
Blast
April 19th, 2009
9:10 pm
Josh Smith! Throwing it down! I’m watching the game on Fox Sport and TNT, trying to find balance coverage. So far, they are calling it right, cos TNT has no choice. Hawks balling, man. Josh Smith! Highlight Reel!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:12 pm
HERE THEY GO WITH THAT MONKEY SHYT…!!!
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:14 pm
Blast, you should know that Fratello has love for the Hawks.
So far, we’re showing NO REVERENCE for Wade (as it should be). It’s all about te defense and we’re attacking these guys which is leading to the fast break opps. But it starts with aggressive defense… and not being afraid to attack D-Wade (defensively). We’re making him look quite mortal.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:15 pm
Bibby not looking bad tonight on the defensive end… hmmm…?
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:16 pm
MAD, CRAZY DEFENSE leading to Joe’s open 3.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:17 pm
bibby playing the point tonight… love his game tonight…
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:17 pm
Flip, Mario, ZaZa, Evans. We have already played 9 deep. With no let off except a couple struggles with ZaZa. Our Defense is just to tough for Miami so far. Were making free throws and winning the effort non stat. Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:17 pm
I like this. We’re pounding them, and I hope we put a foot on their collective necks first thing in the second half.
hawks fan from australia
April 19th, 2009
9:17 pm
j-j-j-j-j-joe! what a 3!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:18 pm
I forgot – we avoided the slow start. Very important.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:19 pm
Gotta co-sign BigDave.
Bibby is playing the game we need him to tonight.
Ed
April 19th, 2009
9:20 pm
It’s hard to see how Miami got the fifth seed…they look pathetic.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:21 pm
20 points BABY. Only 39 for Miami. KILLA DEFENSE. KILLA DEFENSE.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:21 pm
This is awesome. Up by 20 at the half? Who saw that coming? I couldn’t be happier!
Blast
April 19th, 2009
9:23 pm
Josh with Cheryl Miller on TNT at halftime! Go Hawks! Whoop these Miami!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:25 pm
How about Josh Smith, 6/10 and 17 points. I have no crystal but I called Josh being the ex-factor. He is playing under control. Awesome start for the front court. I have followed Ray’s comments about going low. Let me be the first to say good call and wheeeeeeeee.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:27 pm
KevinA,
I’m wit ya baby!
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:29 pm
We are currently outperforming them in every single category. EVERY. SINGLE. ONE. Keep up the good work, guys.
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
9:30 pm
steven a smith with sam on the half time show(radio) 790 the zone.
Blast
April 19th, 2009
9:30 pm
There goes the TNT studio crew clowning on Josh Smith again, talking about his jumpshot, which is true. But dude is the leading scorer in the game so far! You can’t find something positive to say about him?
KJ
April 19th, 2009
9:31 pm
whats the deal with the guys on tnt not giving us our props. before the series it was oh if they could stop D-Wade, and now that we are stopping him they complain that we play too much one on one ball. What in the blue tarnations is that all about?
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:32 pm
switched over for halftime and no respect from the guys on TNT… wow… didnt expect much… just wanted to hear unbiased halftime. if Wade woulda gone off they would have rode his nutz… smh…
back to watching good ole’ Bob & Nique’ for the call… dont nothing change!!!
LETS GO HAWKS…!!! LETS GO HAWKS…!!!
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:33 pm
Yeah, Blast, they refuse to give him credit for running and dunking off of the lockdown defense the entire team is playing. I think they’re just haters. Barkley, C-Web and Kenny Smith? They’re just jealous of Smoove. Haters!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:34 pm
otrhawksfan…
IM CURIOUS TO KNOW WHAT HE (STEVEN A) SAID…?
Blast
April 19th, 2009
9:36 pm
Well, Wade has 17 also, but his team is losing.
KJ
April 19th, 2009
9:36 pm
I mean we all know smoov can’t shoot worth a darn but dude is deadly on the breaks. I will agree with ol chuck that he needs to be in the gym taking about 500 shots a day so he can get better though
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:37 pm
We really haven’t even unleashed Flip yet. Lets see if Woody plays the bench again. Solo 5 min please. Speedy at least 5 min please. Hope we get up by thirty early lol so this can happen.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:37 pm
WHATS UP WITH THAT SKIT WITH HARRY AND THOSE TWO GUYS DANCING TO BEYONCE’… GEESH…
TI WAS IN THE BUILDING… RIGHT THERE… FRONT ROW… PLEASE GIVE THE MAN A MIC… A GOING AWAY PARTING GIFT TO THE PEOPLE OF ATLANTA…MAYBE SOME WORDS OF WISDOM, ANYTHING BUT THAT… OUR REP IS BAD ENOUGH HERE WOW… THROWING UP…!!!
KJ
April 19th, 2009
9:41 pm
hahaha bigdave i’m clowning! man i love my hometown but boi since i’ve been gone seems to me all atlanta gets connected with now is fun boi’s! hahahahahaha! It used ta be the home of the georgia peaches now it’s the home of the twig lickers! hhahaahahahaha
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
9:41 pm
okay hawks lets take care of the rock and get something on every time down..
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:42 pm
this is what happens when we run… and we can do it against any team in the league…
jake
April 19th, 2009
9:42 pm
The Hawks’ Marketing dept sold us out with that little halftime thing. They could’ve gotten any artist from Atl to do something, but chose guys dancing in stockings and a onepiece to put a ring on it.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:43 pm
KILLA DEFENSE!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:45 pm
What a pass lol
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:45 pm
No more stupid fouls, Joe.
Ed
April 19th, 2009
9:45 pm
Guess we can call the shot by Josh a “pass” and an assist!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:46 pm
Joe telling coach he just got 3… wow… leave him in coach…
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:46 pm
To many fouls to early.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:46 pm
Nothing is easy for the Heat. No clean shots.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:47 pm
We missed Marvin so much. Love his driving ability. When we play well we have a nice mix.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:53 pm
KJ well… when u moved out…others came in…. i dunno whats going on…? i m keeping my eyes on miss lady TIP has with him in yellow front row…
but anyway..
so much for the “heart” and all that yadda yadda that ive read here about how much the “superstars” like Wade, LBJ, Kobe… etc… have.. well yea.. Wade is pulling a vintage playoff Kobe (PHX series) right now… his team is being blown out so he has quit and is no longer being aggressive… ha ha… funny… if u ask me he quit on the way to the locker room when he looked up in the stands at all the fanfare, towels waving, and such at the Phil tonight…
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
9:55 pm
Was talking to Sautee on the phone, and he remarked on the disparity in shots taken. Bibby and Joe are not getting too shot happy, and they’re hitting the majority of what they’re attempting.
He also remarks that Bibby and JJ have been spreading the ball around a lot, and that’s where this has to come from on offense. Major kudos to them, as our frontcourt continues to destroy theirs.
Nice to see Bibby playing like a pg, and not a sg.
Ed
April 19th, 2009
9:55 pm
I don’t think I have ever seen D Wade look worse than he does tonight.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:55 pm
Good time for a Solo sighting. Be interesting to see how he would do. Save Al for the finish
I can’t remember being this dominent against a quality team. Showing our true potential.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:56 pm
Hawks just aren’t differing to Wade, they’re not letting him get off. Dude is on his way to 10 TOs tonight. DAMN!
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:56 pm
BLOW EM OUT…!!! KILL EM…!!!
TNT… ESPN… WHOMEVER CAN SAY WHAT THEY WANT… WE ARE PUTTING ON THE MOST IMPPRESIVE SHOW OF THE FIRST GM. FIRST RD…
WELL, NIQUE’ JUST CALLED YA BOY OUT “ITS LIKE HE JUST QUIT”… HAVE LOST ALL RESPECT FOR D WADE…
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:57 pm
Where is that reality dude tonight? The one dissing the Hawks?
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
Oh, MY , Mr. Smith.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
Ohhhhhhhmmmmmmyyyyyy Josh slams again.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
9:58 pm
look at him sitting over there in the corner… looking in the stands.. leaving his young troops out there alone while he gets all his MVP (ha) glory… what a leader…
if anything TNT needs to talk about that… they wanna talk shyt bout the Hawks.. look at your poster boy D Wade…!!!
and im done with this yall, had to get it off my chest… air it out…
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
9:59 pm
okay lets see solo by middle ways in the 4th
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
9:59 pm
If he could work on his jumper like Marvin did in the offseason – ooooooooooohhhhhhmmmmmyyyyyyyy
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
10:01 pm
T Mobile is calling Rick Sund right now to get the Hawks starting five to star in their next series of commercials. Their the real Fave 5!
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
10:02 pm
KevinA, I said the exact same thing a few days ago… about Smith doing what Marvin did.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
10:02 pm
Gotta give Woody credit for preparing these guys defensively. They haven’t let up on Wade at all. While he will no doubt come back in the next game fired up, he will also know that NOTHING is going to be easy for him, and he may not even get all the superstar calls he was getting.
Woody has these guys ON POINT.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:02 pm
Joe iso not cool.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
10:03 pm
Good time-out.
Hawks Fan In New Orleans
April 19th, 2009
10:04 pm
I’m actually glad that D Wade called for the no-go-out policy. That way, in the event they lose this series. Atlanta nite life won’t be an excuse. The better team won should be the only explanation. Let’s wrap up game one!
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
10:04 pm
alot of the national media over looks the hawks. but once we show them what time it is in round 2 we will change their minds
KJ
April 19th, 2009
10:05 pm
Man, that’s a darn shame. I was really hoping D wade would at least stay in and fight it out until the end. I’m hoping maybe the coach told him to take it off a lil bit and save it to bring the gusto in game 2
KJ
April 19th, 2009
10:07 pm
I regress D wade is back to taking shots and competing
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:09 pm
57 points in three quarters. I guess no 55 points by Wade tonight? hehe
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:12 pm
agreed Hawks Fan in N O …
they love to make the night life an excuse… even in this series… i mean the A is poppin in all but, its not what it once was… but they funny thing is these guys coming from South Beach… 24/7 partying…
haha… Steven A is good for that excuse… ” o the ATL… yadda yadda yadda…” shut up Steven, the Celts played there butts off down here and left with a black eye… so will the Heat… and so will Queen James…!!!
KJ
April 19th, 2009
10:12 pm
Hold up your 4’s ladies and gentlemen! here we go!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:12 pm
Big Al – 5/9 14 pts and 8 rebounds. Solid night for the young big man.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:16 pm
Time for some bench sightings. Please Woody?
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
10:17 pm
KevinA, too early for the bench. LeBron didn’t leave yesterday’s blowout until around 2 minutes left. In the playoffs, you can’t take any chances. Run them until 2 minutes are left.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
10:17 pm
I wouldn’t hammer Woody too much on playing the bench guys just yet. I know he wants to make sure this game is well in hand, and Miami will keep their best guys in the game to try and get back into it.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:18 pm
good nite Miami…
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
10:18 pm
Oh, my, Mr. Smith! (Again)!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:18 pm
Oh my myyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy what he heck was that Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:18 pm
Flip a hater…
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:19 pm
Josh coulda had a spots center top 10 all by himself…
KJ
April 19th, 2009
10:19 pm
Oh my! What a jam. Turn out the lights folks. The party’s over. See you guys Friday
KJ
April 19th, 2009
10:20 pm
scratch that tuesday I think
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
10:23 pm
maybe with these win the hawks will be seen more and more on tnt and espn.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:23 pm
Goodness sake, Gheesh, what happens when he comes into his own. I’m an outsider, started watching the Hawks in the first year of the Josh saga. Without him I might of watched college ball more. Tonight this young man is showing just what he can do. I knew deep down this day was possible.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:24 pm
foul on Za Za… WTF?!?!?!
welikebaseball2
April 19th, 2009
10:24 pm
Not to be negative but…hey SEKOU, remember when you asked whether or not we figured Woody would actually expand the rotation for the playoffs? Looks like he’s not going any further than Pachulia, Murray, & Evans. With a 20-plus point lead, think he can trust West, Jones, or Morris enough to give them just a little action?
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:26 pm
that defense is looking stout… Woody’s loving it…
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:27 pm
5:51 left, bench Woody?
eman
April 19th, 2009
10:27 pm
the first two big scoring quarters seems to have tired them out but at least, unlike Orlando, they’re holding on to the lead in this final quarter.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:28 pm
has anybody seen the Joe Johnson chess commercial that was advertised on the hawks ajc page?
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
10:32 pm
JJ’s had a quite game, and we didn’t need for him to have a great one. That’s always nice to see.
Bibby has played the pg position about as well as you could want. 10 points, 9 dimes? Gotta love it.
Nice rotating by Woody, as there is 5 minutes left in the game, and nobody is staring 40 minutes in the face. With Wade and O’Neal sitting down, we may see 3 of our starters cop a squat as well.
Blast
April 19th, 2009
10:32 pm
Hawks taking care of business tonight. TNT can’t talk crap about us no more. Where all the Heat fans tonight, clogging up our blog? Heat not carefull, they get swept in this series.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
10:34 pm
Everyone happy… bench is in.
KJ
April 19th, 2009
10:34 pm
the reserves are in! yay!
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
10:35 pm
welikebaseball2,
I’d agree with that, but Woody’s been better in this game about HOW LONG he’s had his starters out there. JJ had 37 minutes, Josh 38, and it goes down from there. The three guys off the bench had 22, 23, and about 16 minutes respectively.
And now we’re seeing the rest of the bench. Not bad at all.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
10:37 pm
Hold a team to less than 70 points in the playoffs? KILLA DEFENSE!!!!!!
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
10:37 pm
hey lets name 10 things that the heat can do instead of going out??
they can all huddle in a room and watch old reruns on nick at nite lol
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
10:38 pm
Well, game 1 is all but in the books, and we are one of just a scant few teams to hold their homecourt advantage. Now THAT’S an accomplishment.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
10:39 pm
SWEEP…!!! SWEEP…!!! SWEEP…!!! SWEEP…!!!
Blast
April 19th, 2009
10:39 pm
Go out and party, Atlanta Hawks. Hit the night spots while the Heats stew in their Motel room! Hawks on a mission!
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
10:41 pm
streamers fly hawks win!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:41 pm
Josh MVP of game, great win for the Hawks. Hit Miami in the mouth early and often and they never recovered. Lowest scoreing for Miami in a playoff game EVER.
KevinA
April 19th, 2009
10:44 pm
Only one thing that could beat this win. Another win just like it against in game one in Clev.
Blast
April 19th, 2009
10:49 pm
Hawks one of the few teams to hold on to their home court adavantage.
Lacsho
April 19th, 2009
10:49 pm
Helluva a game. No complaints here!!!
Ariose
April 19th, 2009
10:51 pm
Whooo!!! We tapped dat @$$ Tonight!!!!!! I was a little off on my prediction. I had the game 95-81 hawks LOL!!!
Da Real Real
April 19th, 2009
10:51 pm
Well the experts said the Heat would win this series. Guess they forgot that to do that they would have to win in Atlanta. That’s the way to play Hawks!!!
Blast
April 19th, 2009
10:52 pm
Even with Bibby scoring only 10 points, he can still influence the game with his assists, steals, and game court leadership. Resign Mike Bibby!
Da Real Real
April 19th, 2009
10:52 pm
Expected, Rejected – NOW YOU KNOWWWWW!!!!! HAWKS WIN!
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
11:01 pm
Gotta love how that game went.
We came out, smacked them in the mouth, and kept a foot on their necks.
Mike Bibby was a true point guard, dishing out 9 assists.
JJ had a quiet game, and was not required to give Herculean efforts on either end of the court. I really like that he didn’t have to do that.
Al Horford gave his usual yeoman’s effort, and hit some nice jumpers.
Woody really had these guys prepared to defend the Heat, and they responded. He also rotated well from the bench, even if he only went 8 deep with the roster for the majority of the game. Can’t blame him, as you do NOT want to get a big lead, then let the opposing team back into it. Good job by Woody.
Marvin Williams looked quite good in his limited minutes, and was aggressive. That was good to see.
Man, how many times are we going to see Zaza play one-man volleyball on the boards against the opposition? 10 rebounds! Yes!
And last, but not least, you have to give it up to Josh Smith. While some may want to act like all he does is dunk and show off God-given athleticism (isn’t that what makes an athlete?), there is no doubt about the impact he has on this team, and he had on this game. Leading the team in scoring and rebounding (tied), while being a serious energizer on both ends, cannot be ignored. I don’t care who you are, or what you say…he did what his team needed him to do.
In fact, so did this entire team. Good win, Hawks!
The Truth
April 19th, 2009
11:06 pm
Talk about maturity, man this Hawk team is a beautiful thing to watch in the playoff. As I mentioned in a previous blog about the Indiana Pacers bearing witness, those Josh Dunks can take the air out of any opponent especially at home. He really needs to talk to a patent attorney about those dunks. I have never seen D Wade look so dejected.
DeadManWalking
April 19th, 2009
11:08 pm
“Josh MVP of game, great win for the Hawks. Hit Miami in the mouth early and often and they never recovered. Lowest scoreing for Miami in a playoff game EVER.”
I agree. the whole team played well but josh was defintely the headliner.
bigdave
April 19th, 2009
11:09 pm
espn has dawned the championship series Lakers V. Cavs…
amazing… why play the games…?
The Truth
April 19th, 2009
11:11 pm
Hey Ray
How do spell a good old fashion A$SS whipping?
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
11:13 pm
TRUTH,
I spell it 88-64!!!
cp
April 19th, 2009
11:13 pm
Great win. Nothing to complain about at all.. I hope they come out with the same intensity, focus, and energy for the next game.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
11:17 pm
TRUTH,
I’m loving those Josh Smith dunks, too! And those steals. Man, he was everywhere. He gave us a 20 and 10 night. How you can not give credit to a guy for that kind of effort, I’ll never know.
I really like that Woody didn’t burn his starters right down to the ground, too. Especially his backcourt. Of course, there was no need, the way the frontcourt guys were playing (been saying THAT all along).
Clyde
April 19th, 2009
11:17 pm
I like the way the Hawks played on defense. Horford was helping Jsmooth contest shots in the lane which kept DWade in check. Zaza is another story. He helps on the boads but his interior defense is horrible. I know Sean Williams would come of the bench and block some shots.
Lets get another win at home and find a way to win 2 on the road.
Da Real Real
April 19th, 2009
11:22 pm
You know…the only thing I’m really ticked about is thinking about what Kenny and co said during halftime. It’s like he was talking about last year’s Hawks team. Aside from all the dunks by Smoove I actually seen the team run a lil offense tonight. Last year’s playoff performance don’t even compare to this one. Oh well…what should I have expected, we rarely get any love from the national media.
The Truth
April 19th, 2009
11:23 pm
Ray
ROGER THAT
Man that Josh Smith need to do a incredible hulk commerical; I’m serious!!!
Macaroni Tony
April 19th, 2009
11:24 pm
I really don’t care about the national media as well. But we did what we needed to do, and that was come out with a win. Let’s Go Hawks….
otrhawksfan
April 19th, 2009
11:28 pm
yea i seen some new set tonight and the focus on the out of bounds plays have been a major factor.
Samuel
April 19th, 2009
11:29 pm
Guys,
I missed all the fun. I was at the State Gymnastics Championships. My Baby Girl, Maulana, took 1st Place in the All Around. Now it’s on to the Nationals this summer to defend her crown.
I’m not surprised at all. The Heat really have no where near the squad the Hawks have.
Woody=COY
intellibird
April 19th, 2009
11:30 pm
If Chicago and Philly beat Boston and Orlando, respectively, I think we would play Philly in the next round. Then its on to the winner of the Chicago-Cleveland series. Lets hope that things continue as they are…
Go Hawks!
Samuel
April 19th, 2009
11:31 pm
Sean Williams is leading the league in Blocked “Computer Monitors”.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
11:36 pm
Samuel, congrats to you and your little one. That’s super cool. Yeah, man. Hawks allow 64 points (including less than 45 in the last 3 quarters) and bloggers want to highlight one player. Amazing! Smith was able to put his skills on mad display tonight with one highlight slam followed by another. But the story of the game was the defensive effort from beginning to end. Smith’s dunks, Bibby’s assists and Speedy’s cameo all take back seats to the TEAM’s suffocating defense that had D. Wade acting like a B during portions of the 2nd half.
Rod from College Park
April 19th, 2009
11:40 pm
Big Ray,
Sam and Rod were at the game. Marvin looked like Marvin. Average. Remember my argument was always based towards the people who stated we should keep Marvin, and get rid of Josh. Josh is a much better player. Good win by the Hawks.
doc
April 19th, 2009
11:45 pm
clyde the problem with your friend sean is he might not be able to get off the floor much less the bench. leave the yeoman zaza alone, flat tired of your rap, as it is done, over. he has let you down and broke your heart. let him go.
j smash sighting tonight. JOSH SMITH = MVP! he flat took the game over tonight.
also reported a COY in the house.
phillips was flat out rocking. i dont know if it came across on the tv screen but it was decibel level loud. four straight games now the BIG A has brought it. now you know this isnt a place for the faint of heart.
good to see jhan, manny t, melton, mark and ando at the game. very impressive game. got to keep it up on tuesday. thee is no reason to not continue to step on their throat.
Astro Joe
April 19th, 2009
11:47 pm
Oh, and props to Mo Evans. Dude was in Wade’s shorts throughou the game. And challenged him like he was a scrub. He had that “Mario West” attitude (without the fouls). I haven’t been overly impressed with Evans this season (espcially his reputed defensive skills), but tonight, he was a freakin’ pit bull on Mr. T. Mobile.
kirkinga
April 19th, 2009
11:48 pm
Great game tonight. I don’t know what the Heat were expecting, but they sure got more than what they were ready for.
The playoffs really emphasize adjustments, in-game, and game-to-game. Game 2 should be very revealing as the burden of adjustment is on the Heat and not the Hawks.
With such a stomping, there really isn’t much to nitpick about or analyze.
Well Done.
Go Hawks!!
Mark
April 19th, 2009
11:52 pm
Ray your boy came. Great game for Josh. If he could do that consistently he would be great. As Charles Barkley says if he just practice his shooting this summer, he could be SCARY.
As for the rest of the team they played great, but it’s only one game and we have to do this next game because if the HEAT win game 2 they will still take the Home Court advantage. We should be alright. We need to continue to run on teams. When we run we are unstoppable, but we have to continue to move the ball in the half court game. We need to continue to be physical as well. We really knocked them around.
Big Ray
April 19th, 2009
11:53 pm
Rod,
I felt Marvin came out pretty hot, and aggressive. He only played 17 minutes or so, though. I understand where you’re coming from when the argument is “keep Marvin, get rid of Josh.”
Josh played very well tonight. Of course, there are those who are woefully ignorant and hateful to the point of where they want to minimize his effort and production as much as they can. Not unexpected.
I think nearly everybody here can recognize that this was a wonderful team effort. I noted six different players myself (including the head coach, and his great management of the game). But with every game, there tends to be highlights. They show them on sportscenter. They talk about them after the game. Excitement, man. Game-changing plays. Things that key momentum and what not.
I think that’s where the “Where Amazing” commercials come from.
Where are you band wagon heat fans?
April 19th, 2009
11:56 pm
Seem to recall quite a bit of you wade jersey wearing fools talking trash on this blog recently….64 points guys! Strong start. So where are you now? I can’t seem to find your comments tonight…go cry in your wade jersey….
Big Ray
April 20th, 2009
12:03 am
Mark,
Yeah, Josh got the job done tonight. Really helped his team out on both ends of the court. He does need to do that consistently. I’ll give him as much hell as I do praise. Some people can only manage a grudging, smarmy, condescending, one-dimensional compliment. Glad to see you’re not one of those.
And I agree, if he develops a significantly better jumper over the offseason, he will be even harder to deal with. Of course, that would ruin it for some people…they want him to just dunk the ball all the time and score close to the basket…so they can say that all he does is dunk…
I thought Bibby played very well, too. Like a crafty veteran should, especially when faced with a fresh-legged rookie that really has not much to lose. I was impressed with his performance, and look forward to more of the same.
Woody managed the game quite well. Not only do I not have any complaints, I applaud him. I thought going a bit deeper with the bench might be a way to go, but with Acie unavailable, and Speedy not “up to speed,” the better decision was spending more minutes on the bench players he was comfortable playing. It worked, as none of the starters got over-worked.
Reality
April 20th, 2009
12:13 am
WAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!! WE LOST! WE SUCK!
trade smoove
April 20th, 2009
12:16 am
i agree with astro joe. josh smith had a buncha dunks and that is all. what else does he do? he is a whiny silly player who only dunks da ball. hawks do not need him at all. marvin plays better so let him get the play time. at least he does more than dunk.
Bibby Johnson
April 20th, 2009
12:19 am
It wasnt the magic like Celtics playoff games last season but still a great win. Way to go Hawks!!
Dwayne Wade
April 20th, 2009
12:21 am
I was fouled…not fair!
Dwayne Wade
April 20th, 2009
12:22 am
Didn’t y’all see me on the ground…I got fouled…every time someone breathed on me…they all fouled me…that’s why i hit the deck every play.
Dwayne Wade
April 20th, 2009
12:29 am
Did our 7 points in the 4th quarter make SportsCenter?
Al
April 20th, 2009
12:42 am
I wasn’t gonna show up tonight since my team didn’t but here I am. From the coach, to D-Wade, to Beasley, Haslem, and the bench, we played awful. And your team was ready and took advantage of it. Smith was flying around all over the place. Damn. I’m gonna have nightmares I think. Still, it’s only 0-1 and not yet time to panic… I would like a Wade jersey to cry into WAYBWHF… Buy me one
Josh Smith
April 20th, 2009
12:48 am
Hey Dwayne you aint the only one who has it bad. I went and dunked on yall all night long and some people still dont like me. I thot I played good. Stop cryin or Ima dunk on you like I did Steve Nash. Ya heard!
Najeh Davenpoop
April 20th, 2009
12:48 am
I was at the game tonight. The crowd was unbelievable and so were the Hawks. I don’t know what the stats were but after a slightly sloppy start everyone was playing out of their minds, except Marvin who looked like he was still shaking off a little rust. Josh Smith had the crowd going crazy, including me. I can barely talk right now.
D-Wade came out shooting J’s like he didn’t want any part of the Hawks’ interior defense. The Hawks did a great job on him but I will admit he took himself out of the game a little bit with his shot selection.
It’s only one game and the Hawks have to keep bringing it, but after a statement like they made tonight it’s hard to see the Heat pulling off the upset in this series.
About the only thing wrong with tonight’s contest was the timeout skit with Harry the Hawk dancing with a couple of cross-dressers. They got booed off the court, and deservedly so.
Najeh Davenpoop
April 20th, 2009
12:50 am
And maybe the best part about tonight’s game? Unlike last year’s playoffs, where nearly half the crowd was wearing green, there were very few Heat jerseys in the crowd. I even saw a Glenn Robinson Hawks jersey… although I don’t know if that’s a good thing or a bad thing…
Hawks Fan In New Orleans
April 20th, 2009
12:59 am
I know for a fact that D Wade whines more than J Smash. Let the man have his glory without the hatin. After a game like that – its only nitpicking.
Dwayne Wade
April 20th, 2009
1:00 am
Shaquille, why have you abandoned me??
Al
April 20th, 2009
1:10 am
Dwyane, you should get some sleep. You spelled your own name wrong.
Josh Smith
April 20th, 2009
1:16 am
Yall leave me alone. And tell that fat guy who drives the astro van to mind his business.
Najeh Davenpoop
April 20th, 2009
2:38 am
It p-sses me off that the Hawks get the Cavs in the 2nd round no matter what… they should do it like football and have the top seed play the lowest seed in each round. Doesn’t make any sense for the Sixers and Bulls to play each other in the 2nd round in the very unlikely event they both pull an upset, while the higher-seeded Hawks have to face the Cavs.
Shamus Thacker
April 20th, 2009
3:54 am
Nice touch having T.I. be a prominent fixture at Philips.
Convicted felons are such wonderful role models.
U-N-B-E-L-I-E-V-A-B-L-E, and sickening!!
terrell barron
April 20th, 2009
7:22 am
Great win. Too bad we’re not in Boston and Orlando’s bracket. We might just be in the Eastern Conf finals this year, if we were. It’s going to be extremely difficult trying to stop Lebron.
terrell barron
April 20th, 2009
7:49 am
But Najeh, it’s supposed to be 3.Orlando vs 2.Boston, not Chicago vs. Philly. If we wanted to avoid Cleveland in the 2nd, we should’ve won the division. Too late now.
dap01
April 20th, 2009
8:02 am
Don’t our athletes look great when they are out running up and down the court?
ILL-logical
April 20th, 2009
8:44 am
Simple but effective formula: When the ball is shared ,we win.
Sidebar: Woodson just needs one more season to establish his resume as the turnaround guy. (He) can take your 13 win team full of young talent and have them in the playoffs within 3 years. Got to be a ton of jobs that fit that call for that skill set.(And you wonder why he doesn’t try and develop players)
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
8:53 am
I was at the game last night, and had a wonderful time!! The crowd was electric. When Josh plays under control and aggressive towards the basket, he makes this team not just good but dangerous. Marvin played extremely well given the short time back from injury and Joe just quietly plays a pros game. Gotta love it!!!
Hey Najeh… did you see the sportscenter package. Harry the Hawk and those dudes dancing were featured almost as much as the game!?!
ESPN gives us no love; even with a great win we are buried behind the Celtics who lost the day before and they show the most embarrassing part of the whole game. I love Harry, but I don’t need to see that again.
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
8:54 am
Shamus… I thought the same thing.
Glass Houses
April 20th, 2009
8:57 am
Hey Shamus – Last time I looked, TI was paying his debt to society. Have you never done anything wrong? And oh, by the way, did you spend thousands of dollars for underprivelidged kids to go to the game like TI did?
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
9:34 am
Glass Houses- TI is ABOUT to pay for his debt to society. I am glad he is bringing kids to the game, but he is representing our city to the nation. People deserve second chances but that doesn’t mean you get held up as a hero and the spotlight. And yes, I have too done things wrong before, but A)I haven’t been sentenced to a federal prison term on weapons charges, B) I am not being asked to introduce the Hawks on national tv. That opinion doesn’t make me a “Hater” (the most over used comment ever), I actually like TI. I just think the irony is too much.
Hey Daniel and Shamus
April 20th, 2009
9:46 am
We get it…sheesh…calm down. Way to find something negative to talk about even though we get a big win last night. I was more focused on the game other than the side show…but that’s just me. Typical Atlanta sports fans….even with a win you find something to b*tch about. Quit being offended so much and I promise you’ll enjoy life more. Get over it and if it keeps bothering you by all means go pick something else minor and insignifigant to whine and complian about…. Quick reminder to you both…bigger story of the night (you know..the one us sports fans are talking about) is that our home town team tore the heat a new one…..GO HAWKS!
richbrave
April 20th, 2009
9:55 am
Makes me glow just knowing I am in the “WIN IN SIX” group with GREG SKODA and the AJC’s own MARK BRADLEY. And I got to read the lines in the box score. Four of five starters shoot 50% from the field or better, and JJ is just one short of that standard. Whopping rebound advantage. My man BIG AL works out. And double the assists, well almost. Whew. Wish I had seen the game. Must have been impressive. You all are seeing what I saw in 2008 when the rising HAWKS played the slithering WIZARDS. DRMARY B’s fab five have grown up even if JOSH CHILDRESS is a GREEK. ASG endures, BK’s history and the WOODEN-one prevails. Anybody for ditching BIBBY at this point? No-o-o? Didn’t think so. GO HAWKS.
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
9:56 am
“Hey Daniel and Shamus”- you seem to be much more upset than me. I just made a simple statement. Also, you must have missed my take on the game. It certainly seems you are the one who needs to calm down, and at least I put my name on my blogs.
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
9:57 am
Here is a real question for the blog.
Are you willing to extend Woodson now?
Hey Daniel
April 20th, 2009
10:03 am
TI just called…said he’s gonna be at game 2 whether you like it or not. That alright with you and the fun police?
Astro Joe
April 20th, 2009
10:10 am
Wow, the room sure has gotten crowded. That’s GREAT. I’ve been here for a while. I’ve sent out many invitations to enjoy this season without the cynicism and skepticism that has become the norm. Doubting Thomas said that he needed to touch to believe. Last night, many of you finally got a chance to touch. Some have believed without physical evidence. However you got here, I hope that you stay. Don’t lose faith. This season is for real. Relax and enjoy!
Rick Sund
April 20th, 2009
10:11 am
If the Hawks win the 2nd round, Woody gets a 10-year extension. You heard it here first!
D-WANE WAID
April 20th, 2009
10:14 am
Did my 19 points make SportsCenter?
I Agree About TI
April 20th, 2009
10:16 am
I had my 7 year old son with me and I thought it was disrespectful of Atlanta Spirit to bring out such a ruthless character. The man is a criminal and makes our city look bad. Daniel and Shamus… I’M WITH YOU! That was a disgrace and we should all write our congressmen today to try and rectify this situation. We should have had MC Hammer or someone with class out there representing us. 2 Legit…2 Legit to quit!
TI
April 20th, 2009
10:17 am
You can have me at the game…you can choose that you don’t…
You can do whatever you like…you can do whatever you like
Glass Houses
April 20th, 2009
10:17 am
Daniel – I actually think that TI is a FANTASTIC role model. His story embodies the idea that one can turn ones life around; that one can even be sentanced to Federal prison all the while doing good for his fellow man; there ARE second chances; one CAN see the error of his ways and become an exemplary citizen (and the lessons go on and on).
There are millions of people currently in our prison system, and millions of them are scheduled to be released in the coming years. Let us hope that they will look at a role model like TI and decide that they can turn their life around without resorting to more criminal activity. Let us hope that society gives them a second chance AND a helping hand. If not, God help us all.
Volman
April 20th, 2009
10:20 am
Daniel, it’s okay.. Just chant “three to five!!” when T.I. shows up next. Just kidding. My take on that situation is that he IS doing his time because he messed up, but I do not believe he should be doing player intro’s for the teams. It is way too soon. You can’t just “forget” about what he did. Why not get someone like Young Jeezy or Lil Wayne or Ludacris for intro’s? Ah well. It’s a minor thing.
Man, the Hawks beat the Heat like they stole something last night. And did I see a Craig Claxton sighting? unreal.
I am proud of our fans but also disappointed at the same time because the game obviously wasn’t a sellout. The crowd was great, however…and there were VERY few Heat fans. Very few.
Okay, one down…3 to go. Then bring on LeBron and the referees.
Volman
April 20th, 2009
10:27 am
I can understand this whole “second chance” thing, but what about the people who don’t use their first chance? Do we get a prize?
I bet T.I. is a friendly and nice person, but he screwed up. There is no doubt about it. It isn’t like somebody placed guns in his car or whatever it was. He wasn’t suckered into doing what he did. He knew it had the potential to put him in jail, yet he did it. He should not get a free pass because he is doing MTV shows and giving free tickets away to Hawks games. I commend him for the effort that he has put forth to clear his name, I really do. I just do not think he deserves a free pass because he is “serving his time”. What he did was wrong.
One last thing (and this is just for debate, not being negative or anything) but why does T.I., who was involved with some fairly serious stuff (guns, I believe–correct me if I’m wrong) get his own television show, gets to do appearances, is still selling albums, etc. when somebody like Michael Vick, who also did some terrible things, is thrown under the bus? I understand killing animals in such a violent way that he did is a miserable thing to do, but I would rather take a dog’s life than ANY human be killed during whatever “transactions” went on with T.I. That’s my two cents.
A Thinkin Fan
April 20th, 2009
10:36 am
Game One under the belt – 1 at a time!!!
Da Real Real
April 20th, 2009
10:43 am
Well it looks like this blog has turned into a Falcon-like blog…Since it doesn’t sound like the guy who couldn’t understand why TI was at the game didn’t pay attention to his case I’d assume he didn’t realize he’s already served some of his time on house arrest and that he wont begin serving his jail time until May some time in fact I want to say its a month from yesterday. He’s got a year and a day to serve and who knows, who probably wont serve all of that time. Unlike Vick who decided to serve his time immediately TI appears to be going up to his final reporting date….
As for why Vick gets thrown under the bus so much….I don’t really know, you’d probably have to ask the folks who’s doing the throwing.
Da Real Real
April 20th, 2009
10:53 am
I’ll help you answer this:
“As for why Vick gets thrown under the bus so much….I don’t really know, you’d probably have to ask the folks who’s doing the throwing.”
He gets “thrown under the bus” because he was HANGING AND ELECTROCUTING DOGS!!!
Speedy Claxton
April 20th, 2009
10:54 am
Why y’all always so mean in Atlanta?!?!
Glass Houses
April 20th, 2009
10:55 am
People who don’t use their first chance get to vote and get to answer “no” on that question on employment applications about being convicted. A criminal record stays with you for life, as it should. That way the public can be aware of who they are dealing with and decide accordingly. It is a huge burden to bear. That is the permanent price you pay. But we also know that historically speaking, people with money are often able to expunge their record (socially speaking (see Martha Stewart, George W bush, several Kennedy’s, Rush Limbaugh and scores of other politicians and celebrities.)
And yes, I agree that MV’s punisment was disproportionate. But you can find laws all over the books that are not truly just. See mandatory sentancing and the “Rockefellar” laws.
Serving time is not getting a free pass.
(I think TI’s television show was considered part of his “community service” in his plea deal.)
Volman
April 20th, 2009
11:08 am
Glass Houses, I understand that I get to answer “no” on my employment papers. Like I said before, I bet T.I. is a decent person, but he is also a felon. I’m a nice person, hard working, and do the right thing. You cannot say that T.I. is going to be forever rememebred as the guy who had the gun charges. He came out with new hit songs, if I remember correctly, right after he was charged. Is this the American Dream we all hear of?
About Vick… I think he was treated fairly as far as sentencing. I’m a Falcons fan, so I wish he would not have gotten into trouble, but he did. He paid the price, and he will forever. It is different with T.I., though. He’s getting specials on MTV and giving tickets away. He’s doing special appearances. Michael Vick is being placed in a harsh federal prison and there are protests at his hearings. There is a HATRED for Michael Vick because of what he did to animals. I just do not know how there is no backlash on T.I. because what he did could start a chain that could result in lives being taken. Who knows what those guns were going to be used for?
I just do not think it is fair. Yes, he will serve his time. Yes, he is going to “do the right thing”. Yes, he will have this burden forever…We all know that. But deep deep down, will he be a changed man? Yes, he’ll be sorry…We are all sorry WHEN WE GET CAUGHT.
I’m sure that the millions of fans are going to still buy his albums and ring tones and go to his concerts. Michael Vick? You’ll be sure to see a protest on how cruel of a person he is.
Dogs vs. humans.
Glass Houses
April 20th, 2009
11:19 am
So it sounds like you want people to “HATE” TI like they do MV.
And you want the thought police to determine whether TI is REALLY a changed man.
And you want the law changed so that convicted felons can no longer earn a living to the best of thier ability.
And you want TI to be punished for “what MIGHT have happened” if he did not get caught.
Hmmmmm…..
Volman
April 20th, 2009
11:36 am
You must not be understand what I am trying to get at here.
There are many individuals who believe that because they are “famous” or have a lot of money that they are invincible. Paris Hilton and Britney Spears comes to mind right off the bat.
I never said that I wanted people to hate T.I., but I do want people to change their mindsets. Is it “cool” to talk about guns and giving money to dancers and smoking marijuana? I am not saying that T.I. does that, but his lifestyle suggests it. His actions suggest it.
He is going to “do his time” and then come back and make millions more. Yes, he is good with music and rhyming words together. I will give him that. Society WILL let him off the hook, though. His actions could take lives, but people are going to get angry at CEO’s of financial institutions (most people don’t even know why they are mad, but are blaming them because everybody else is) because “they hurt the economy”. Do you see what I mean? People are picknig and choosing what is wrong in certain situations. It is wrong to kill dogs, or wrong to be greedy and take unsecured assets and bundle them up and sell them to investors, but it IS NOT wrong to illegally sell guns? I must be missing something.
How come there is no backlash in the media about our secretary of the treasury who doesn’t pay his taxes? AND HE WANTS TO INCREASE TAXES? Unreal.
I guess it boils down to a scenario by scenario decision, but please do not tell me that T.I. will be “struggling with the burden” of his terrible judgement and decision making for the rest of his life. He “still has the millions” coming in no matter what, and will continue with that.
If one guy is going to be blamed and persecuted, then ALL of the felons should. I can guarantee you Michael Vick would have been boo’ed if he did the player introductions.
Astro Joe
April 20th, 2009
11:54 am
If I may interject some basketball into the “Road to Redemption” blog…
Spoelstra undoubtedly entered Game 1 thinking “we can’t let their backcourt go off, let’s see if someone else can beat us”. And guess what? Someone on the Hawks team (possibly even the coach), designed a game plan that featured the front court early (Marvin used all of his battery life to start the game) and ultimately Bibby/Joe/Flip combined for less than 30 points and we won. Likewise, Woody clearly wanted to take away the Heat’s most potent weapon and once they did, the Heat scored less than 50 points in the last 3 quarters. It was a perfect marriage of strategy and execution. Even more impressive when you consider that the Heat have a former Hawks assistant on their bench who is very, very familiar with the way the Hawks do things. Yet, they had no answer to the defensive storm. Man, that was fun last night.
Westurd
April 20th, 2009
11:58 am
WTF was the halftime show about? Only blip of the night.
Looks like all the heat fans got bumped off the wagon last night…..they be oh so quite today!
Blast
April 20th, 2009
12:02 pm
Astro Joe. ESPN and TNT has always been biased towards the Hawks, even though TNT is right here in Atlanta. Webber, Barkley and Kenny Smith don’t want to say anything good about Josh because they know they could never have his hops in their best days. Kenny managed to win a ring with Hakeem, but Webber and Charles never won anything, so they are carping on this young fella that sent the whole city into a frenzy last night with his ferocious dunks. Hate on haters, can’t wait to see y’all send Wade fishing!
Josh could potentially be Hawks leading scorer in this series. Heat can’t stop him. ESPN highlights of Hawks game ALL showed Josh dunking over some sucker. All of them were of Josh. What monster dunks! Joe had some nice drives to the rim, and he didn’t even get any cover.
How about Hawks blow out Miami and Joe only scores 15 points?
I think Heat needs to go out for some brew after that game to wipe the sour taste off their mouths. They should go out and get stinking drunk in other to forget the lowest franchise points scored in a playoff game.
Bibby is the MAN. Now, that’s how a point runs a basketball team. 9 assists, and 2 BLOCKS! Did you guys see Bibby block his man’s shot? That was hilarious.
Of all the top 8 teams in the playoffs, only Lakers, Hawks and Cleveland has dominated their opponents.
Can’t wait till game 2. Go Hawks, GO!
JM
April 20th, 2009
12:07 pm
I don’t know how this blog came to this, but TI has said he tried to purchase the guns for protection as his best friend was killed as TI and others drove down the highway after leaving a Ohio club where a fight broke out. They were doing the right thing and trying to leave the situation and someone followed them and shot up the SUV. Why he choose to buy guns instead of hiring more security is a bigger social question not suited for this blog.
Please read the article Sekou posted a link to a couple blogs back about how Black athletes and entertainers are being targeted by thugs, it’ll give you a little insight.
What TI is currently doing should be applauded. More people need to stand up against gun violence and show these kids there is another way. MV7 should be doing more of the same and come out and be more vocal against dog fighting. Trust me – they can change lives. Someone did it for me and I was able to leave that bull behind go to college, law school and start my own firm. Just imagine how many people TI or even Vick can influence.
With that said, lets go Hawks!
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
12:09 pm
Astro Joe-
I think that we did see a very well executed game plan drawn up by Woody. He has this team playing like a real group of professionals. I know he has his flaws, but honestly I think we overlook how good a job he has done for the most part. I know you have defended him, also. Woody has this team right where he said he wanted them to be at the begining of the year. He has the balls to face down his star players without the benefit of a stable ownership or long term contract. He has instilled a strong defensive mindset. He too is learning with this team and the next step for the team next year is to win on the road. This is the progression all teams must make.
As for now, the Hawks are in the playoffs and off to a great start. We don’t get the love nationally, but that will come in time.
Let’s Go Hawks!!!!
Westurd- did you catch sportscenter? they showed more of that Harry the Hawk/ Beyonce dance than they did the game!!! Yeah, not a lot of noise from Heatnation today.
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
12:10 pm
BTW- does anyone know what is the fewest points scored in a playoff game?
SouthAfrican09
April 20th, 2009
12:15 pm
Anyone else at the game notice Speedy somewhat distant from the huddle?
Why wasn’t the arena 100 % full? Why do those corporate seats across from the benches never fill up/
SouthAfrican09
April 20th, 2009
12:16 pm
Sekou: If Speedy plays over 10 games do we have to pay him?
Volman
April 20th, 2009
12:19 pm
Astro, good observations. I hate to say it, but Woody and his staff definitely outcoached the Heat staff. The defense was SPOT ON last night. All the switches were there.. people were helping the helper. It was perfect. There was that intensity out there from the Hawks side, and it definitely was not there from the Heat. They looked scared.
I just hope this Hawks team isn’t intimidated when they go down to Miami for the “blackout”. We all know how well “blackouts” have gone recently! Just ask those UGA fans!
Go hawks!
Al
April 20th, 2009
12:21 pm
Blast, I agree with you. Wade needs to take Beasley out for some underage drinking.
BTW, the Nuggets also crushed the Hornets late last night.
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
12:25 pm
Volman why do you hate to say it?
Blast
April 20th, 2009
12:35 pm
Orlando lost because they went away from what was working: Dwight Howard. It was really painful watching Hedo and the rest jack up missed jumper after jumper while ignoring their big man in the middle who was manhandling Philly, and making his free throws. That’s why they lost, and playing complacent because they were at home. Now Philly has a dose full on confidence, so Magic better watch out.
Top seeded teams in trouble: Boston Celtics. Celts need to be cautious with the Bulls, or we might see an upset in these series. Ray Allen cannot shoot 1-14 or whatever and think his team will win a series without KG. Not when Derrick Rose is playing the best ball of his career. If Bulls win game 2 also, Celtics are done. Orlando, as noted above has to be careful too.
San Antonio Spurs: Dallas is playing inspired basketball right now, and we could see Spurs getting knocked off in the first round.
Portland lost home court to Houston. But then, seedings in the West could have gone either way. If Blazers cannot find an answer to Yao, they’re going fishing.
Al
April 20th, 2009
12:36 pm
Volman, I agree with you. Our coach was a deer in the headlights last night. Beasley, who’s been playing amazing ball as a starter lately gets benched in favor of Haslem, who has stitches in his hand and hasn’t played in weeks. Then he puts in Beasley for O’Neal and moves Haslem into the 5? He puts O’Neal back in at the 5 and moves Beasley to the 3, even though he hasn’t played that position all season. Meanwhile, Jamal Magliore is sitting on the bench as the Heat is getting outrebounded and outhustled. And Joel Anthony plays instead. I really don’t know what happened to Spoelstra last night.
On top of the horrible coaching, no one else is able to drop a shot in so the Hawks are free to quintuple-team Wade, who is too busy arguing with the refs to make adjustments. I expect them to be pissed and come out with more effort and energy on Wednesday, but if the coaching strategy is screwed from the start, what good will that do?
Da Real Real
April 20th, 2009
12:47 pm
To add on to what you said Blast. You’d think that after seeing each other 4 times this season (being in the same division) that these two teams would know each other better than any other team. Granted the Heat have a different offensive scheme and a couple of new guys than years past it looked like Woody and the team KNEW the Heat better than the Heat knew us last night. I really think that made a huge difference as well because I believe the Hawks already feel that they are better and can beat this team because they’ve already done it this season as well as last.
Volman
April 20th, 2009
12:47 pm
Daniel, my fault. I do not hate to say it. I am happy to say that Woodson was the better coach last night. He usually gets outcoached by the likes of Greg Poppovich, Sloan, or Phil Jackson. Last night, however, he was the better/more experienced coach, and anybody could see that. Spoelstra might come from Riley’s crop of coaches, but he looked like he didn’t know what he was doing last night.
Nice points, Al. He had some interesting moves out there.. I kept looking for Maglore to come out and start some “playoff business” with hard fouls and scuffles, but he was a no show. The Hawks completely dominated the boards as well, and the Heat did not get many second chance attempts.
Beasley will be good against Josh Smith in this series only for the fact that he is a lefty. He needs to drive every single time on Josh Smith because when Beasley finishes with the left hand it takes away Josh Smith’s shot-blocking hand (his left) and he has to reach across and possibly get a foul to even make him adjust his shot.
Dwyane Wade was not his normal self last night. He looked like he was going to be Mr. Flash from the get-go, but he definitely cooled off for the rest of the game. You have to give kudos to the Hawks’ defense as a unit. They truly played like a TEAM out there.
Whoever plays as a TEAM will win this series. I think the Heat just found that out.
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
12:57 pm
Volman- nice points. But, who doesn’t get out coached by Jackson, Pops, or Sloan?
Al
April 20th, 2009
1:10 pm
The Hawks played better TEAM defense (and by that I mean the whole TEAM covers Wade) and the credit goes to that strategy. Though its really a no-brainer to do that vs. the Heat. Which is what makes the Heat’s complete ineffectiveness more inexcusable. They should have known exactly what the Hawks would do and thrown them off. For instance, I would have started Beasley and began the game by running the offense through him mainly. It would have thrown off the Hawks’ entire defensive strategy (assuming he was able to score a couple times). With Haslem in there instead, the only strategy we really have is to give Wade the ball and get out of the way. Which results in 19 points and 8 turnovers against a team that’s ready for it like the Hawks were last night (and will likely be again on Wednesday).
GuntherWilson
April 20th, 2009
1:12 pm
Great game guys! Lets get 3 more wins against Miami and go up against King James, Mo Williams and the overconfident Cleveland Caviliers. We will beat them too!
FILL THE EMPTY SEATS!!!
April 20th, 2009
1:15 pm
Atlanta Spirit needs to let people move down after the first quarter or something. THAT WAS NATIONAL TV FOLKS! And we wonder why we never get any pub. Also, another point to be made. BE IN YOUR SEATS BEFORE TIP OFF! If everyone wants the Hawks in the spotlight and wants regular season games broadcast nationally we have to act like we care. Why is it so hard in Atlanta for people to get to their damn seats before the game starts? No other city has that problem. Falcons games are half full until the end of the first quarter. It’s insane. What are people doing? “Well game’s at 8pm and it’s 9pm now so I guess we should head on in to the arena”. “Well kick off is at 1pm so we should probably be at our seats by 2pm”…..I don’t freakin get it!!!!
Astro Joe
April 20th, 2009
1:23 pm
I’m not bumping to put Woody amongst the coaching elite. I was just thinking how you always hear “don’t let the star beat us” and Woody (and/or his staff) exploited the heck out of the Heat’s focus on Joe and Bibby. And when you consider that they have the luxury of an ex-Hawks assistant in their planning room, it makes it that much more impressive (IMO). Again, it doesn’t mean that Woody will nail every coaching decision from here on out.
Plus, I was afraid that we would tranistion from the TI reality show to Rock of Love or Ray-J. UGH!
Daniel
April 20th, 2009
1:24 pm
Hey guys, I believe that Miami’s 64 points ties them with the third lowest score in NBA playoff history. In 1955 Milwaukee scored only 57 points (the first year of the shot clock, but obviously before three point line), and Indiana only scored 63 in 1972 against the Knicks. Was the three point line in play then?
I think there was a record set by the Atlanta defense last night for fewest points allowed in the post three point/ shot clock era for a playoff game.
Can anyone confirm or deny this?
If I am right why is no one talking about it nationally?
O'brien
April 20th, 2009
1:27 pm
Great game by the Hawks, and great job by the coaching staff. I think we will carry this energy over into game 2, but I would love to see us do the same things on the road. When we are on the road, if we defend, and play uptempo, and share the ball, we can hang with anybody (even Cleveland).
bigdave
April 20th, 2009
1:30 pm
dont even wanna comment on the TI comments just know that this is a new day and time, and i concur with those who defend the man… kudos to you…
but to the Hawks… im still amped about our performance… and was watching 1st and 10 (ESPN) after class and the guys are giving us lots of acclaim… and there were no doubts that we could contend with QUEEN James in the 2nd rd. this was good to see after i aired out my feelings about the media coverage last night.
one thing i would like to see the Hawks doing is not allowing the easy buckets.. hammer the opponent and make them earn it at the line.. this is the playoffs and nothing nice…
LETS GO HAWKS…!!! LETS GO HAWKS…!!! LETS GO HAWKS….!!!
Blast
April 20th, 2009
1:31 pm
You right Da Real Real. After seeing Hawks play Heat 4 times this season, I was salivating at the idea of playing them in the first round. Hawks dominated them this season, except for the one game they won. I knew we had their number. Hawks are one team that has defended Wade well this season, and I expect more of that.
Yep, Heat coach did not do a good job with his lineup. Beasley should have started. Magliore should have played. O’Neal and Udonis should have been warming the pine. But then, he is a rookie coach in his first playoff series.
Astro Joe
April 20th, 2009
1:34 pm
Funny, Al basically is stating that Spoelstra should have run his offense thru his front-court to trick the Hawks… which is exactly what Woody did (Heat likely expected Hawks to continue to run things through our shot-happy backcourt).
The other chess move I liked was when Spoelstra went with a front line of JON, Beasley and Moon against Zaza, Smith & Marvin. Woody immediately put Horford in the game and then posted Big Al against Beasley. Spoelstra had to quickly take Moon out of the game and bring back Haslem. The Heat tried to go with a quicker line-up but Woody decided to play power-ball and Spoelstra had to back-off and counter Woody’s move. That happened in the second quarter.. when the Hawks took off.
Blast
April 20th, 2009
1:37 pm
This season, 1st game versus Hawks, Wade scored 35 points. The next two games he scored 21 both times. 4th game he sat out. Now 1st game of the playoffs he scored 19 points. Is he regressing, or are Hawks just playing him better each game?
niremetal
April 20th, 2009
1:38 pm
That’s definitely wrong. I remember one game in the ‘98 Finals where the Jazz scored only 54.
niremetal
April 20th, 2009
1:41 pm
I also remember several games during the post-lockout ‘99 playoffs where teams were held under 70. I figure at least a couple of them scored less than 64. No time to check though.
It was a phenomenal defensive performance by the Hawks, no question. But let’s not belittle it by making it into more than it is (and yes, the choice of words there is intentional).
Samuel
April 20th, 2009
1:52 pm
My DVR freaked out so I only saw the first half. I understand that I didn’t miss much the second.
Things that stuck out for me.
1-The playoff intensity level and crispness on offense and defense was serious. I believe I told yall that Woody was a stretch run and playoff coach. For some reason he really knows what buttons to push to get these guys there.
2- JJ played as well as i’ve seen him play since he’s been here. Did he score a lot,no. But he had that fire in his eye and he took the ball to the rack early. He passed the ball early and played tremendous defense. He continues to play that way and we will be hard to beat. Cleveland and LA included.
3- The team really believes they can win it all and they really can.
I don’t think ill weigh in on TI or MV. I’ll save that for another time.
Woody=COY
Ken Strickland
April 20th, 2009
1:59 pm
WHERE ARE ALL OF THE JOSH HATERS AT, WHERE THEY AT, HEH, HEH, HEH. EXCELLENT DOMINATION LAST NIGHT HAWKS, JUST EXCELLENT. When these young, quick, fast, athletic Hawks are ALLOWED to consistently run and attack the basket, they usually dominate, get excellent ball movement, get contributions from the top 6 players, play excellent DEF and go on extended winning streaks. When they are controlled, and forced to slow the tempo and play halfcourt ball, they usually end up playing a lot of Isolation, one on one, exhibit limited ball movement, play lousy DEF and rely to much on shooting jumpers, especially 3’s. We also become very inconsistent.
The Hawks have demonstrated repeatedly they can win, and win big, playing uptempo fast breaking ball. It has to understand they will also lose gms playing an uptempo style of ball, but not often. Uptempo shouldn’t be used only when the team is in desperate need of a win, after becoming inconsistent while playing Woodson’s preferred slowdown halfcourt style.It should be our signature or identity. Besides, when the Hawks play uptempo it’s just down right exciting and the players respond to it on both ends of the court.
After saying all of that, I TAKE MY HAT OFF TO HC MIKE WOODSON FOR A WELL COACHED, WELL PLANNED, WELL EXECUTED AND VERY WELL PLAYED GM. THAT’S ALL I’VE EVER ASKED FROM YOU AS OUR HC.
terrell barron
April 20th, 2009
2:52 pm
Enough with the T.I. nonsense. OMG!!!!!!
bigdave
April 20th, 2009
3:12 pm
congrats samuel…