The Pistons, known for a dominating defense, mounted an offensive attack on the Bucks last night, shooting 56.9 percent from the field. The win was uncharacteristic because of the defensive philosophy of Detroit, and since neither team has shot better than 45 percent this series.
The story of the game was Rip Hamilton and his 27 points. Hamilton played strongly in the first half while Milwaukee foul trouble gave Detroit plenty of chances at the charity stripe.
Both Damon Jones and Joe Smith had double-doubles totaling 17 points, while Jones had 10 assists and Smith had a dozen rebounds.
Game 5 will be played on the Piston?s home court, a fact that could benefit the Bucks as they beat the Pistons in game two of the series and were the first road team to win in this year?s playoffs.
Guard Mike Bibby and forward Peja Stojakovic had 22 and 20 points respectively as the Kings rallied in the second half to defeat the Mavericks 94-92.
The Kings turned a five-point deficit at halftime into a five-point lead through three quarters before holding off the Mavericks down the home stretch. Three Kings players had double figures in rebounds, led by forward/center Brad Miller with 16, as the team totalled an astounding 68 rebounds in the game while overcoming 17 turnovers.
Dirk Nowitski tallied 21 points and 14 rebounds in the loss for Dallas. The Mavericks shot a dismal 4 for 21 from three and only 60.6 percent from the free throw line.
