NBA Headlines

Now it gets interesting 
The Spurs need to take care of the ball and box out. Most of all, they need Manu Ginobili to bounce back.

Spurs, Pistons ready to roll in Game 4 (AP) 
If you've thought the NBA Finals were a bit of a snooze so far, Chauncey Billups says it's time to wake up. After three fairly tepid games of stout defense, inept offense and good behavior, there are big stakes for Game 4 on Thursday night....

Ginobili, Spurs intent on bouncing back (AP) 
Manu Ginobili left Game 3 of the NBA Finals covered in bruises, from his leg to his pride. Luckily for the San Antonio Spurs, the Argentine star says he has always been a quick healer.

Jackson faces big challenge with Lakers (AP) 
One of Phil Jackson's first observations upon returning to the Los Angeles Lakers was he'd be ``most amazed'' if they were in position to contend for a championship during the life of his three-year contract.

Hamilton treats mask like shoes, shorts (AP) 
Richard Hamilton's clear, plastic mask has become his trademark, as distinct as his ability to curl around screens and make mid-range jumpers. Detroit's shooting guard considers the device protecting his nose that has been broken three times just like his shoes and shorts.

Hunter: Three issues blocking labor deal (AP) 
There won't be a lockout in the NBA this summer if there are only three issues left for owners and players to resolve, union director Billy Hunter said. The problem, however, is that the opposing sides do not even agree on how many items are.

Cavs decline option on Traylor (AP) 
Operating without a full-time general manager, the Cleveland Cavaliers decided Wednesday not to pick up the option on backup center Robert Traylor's $1.76 million contract for next season. Traylor averaged 5.5 points and career-high 4.5 rebounds.