San Antonio Spurs win at home to take 3-2 lead

With 15 seconds to go in overtime, the Houston Rockets trailed by three with a jump ball coming on their side of the floor. The Rockets obtained possession and put the ball in James Harden’s hands to let him dictate the game. This gameplan has led the Rockets all year but it didn’t work in game five. He dribbled around a couple defenders and found a three-point shot attempt with about two seconds to go. However, Manu Ginobili made the play of night blocking Harden from behind to seal the deal. San Antonio survived overtime against the Rockets 110-107.

Ginobili’s block could be the last big moment he has a Spur in his career. The 39-year-old has looked old this postseason but he’s shown vintage Ginobili in spurts. The block tonight was a crafty play which is what he’s done best over his 15-year career. The Argentinian also knifed through the defense earlier in the game and found the rim for a slam with his off right hand. He finished the night with 12 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. The Spurs needed all of Ginobili’s performance, especially in overtime. The lone all-star on the team Kawhi Leonard suffered an ankle injury earlier in the game and did not return for the finish. San Antonio found a way to will themselves without their star power forward which could come back to define the series.

Harden didn’t come through in the final seconds, but he still played an outstanding game. He recorded a triple-double with 33 points, ten rebounds, and ten assists. However, the all-pro shooting guard committed three turnovers in overtime while scoring zero points. Houston will need him to continue playing well and even elevate his game even more. They are now one loss away from the end of their season. Luckily, they are heading back home where they play so well to try and even the series. Game six will be Thursday night.