Leading the way for the Hawks was All-Star guard Joe Johnson. In 44 minutes, Johnson had 27 points, five rebounds, five steals and four assists. He hit 10-of-19 shots from the floor and 6-of-8 three-pointers. He got help from Josh Smith’s 21 points and nine rebounds, Mike Bibby’s 11 points and six assists and the 15 points off the bench from Ronald Murray.

Dwyane Wade (who else?) led the Heat with 31 points, although he connected on just 10-of-25 shots from the field. Rookie Michael Beasley had 17 points and seven boards off the bench. The only other Heat in double-digits was Udonis Haslem with 14 points to go along with 13 rebounds.

In the second round of the playoffs, the Hawks will be going up against the Cleveland Cavaliers. While LeBron and the Cavs will be tough, the Hawks have proven they are a very good home team that has enough talent to steal wins on the road.

Joe Johnson, Atlanta Hawks (Image: Newscom)

Post from: EveryJoe

Hawks Cool Off Heat in Game 7

Tony Parker of the Spurs carves up the Hawks (Image: Newscom)

On Wednesday night against the Atlanta Hawks, Parker once again proved that point. In 39 minutes, Parker had 42 points and ten assists while making 18 of his 25 shot attempts from the field and all six of his free throws.

With the score tied going into the final period, Parker took over. Using his blinding speed and midrange jumper, the native of France picked apart the Hawks possession after possession. When it was all said and done, the Spurs had posted a 102-92 victory.

Making the win even more impressive is the fact that San Antonio was shorthanded. Duncan missed the game to rest his aching knees, while Ginobili was limited to 12 minutes in his return to the lineup after missing over a month with an ankle injury.

Roger Mason, Jr. chipped in 18 points for the Spurs, while Joe Johnson led the Hawks with 30 points.

Post from: EveryJoe

Tony Parker Erupts as Spurs Top Hawks