Before the game started, Sean Elliot’s scouting report included keeping Houston off the three point line without giving up lay-ups. They did a good job on the first part, but not so much the second as they conceded four driving lay-ups/dunks to the Rockets, leading to Pop’s first timeout at 6:39 down by 2. The Spurs did a good job taking advantage of mismatches and offensive boards and ended the half up 26-24, led by nine points from LaMarcus Aldridge. The Rockets were 0-6 from above the arc with only one truly open look.
Manu Ginobili and Patty Mills each hit a three to start the second quarter.