The Takeover

"If Jeezy's paying LeBron, I'm paying Dwyane Wade..."


Jay-Z - Empire State of Mind


Game 3 is vital to any best of 7 series...especially when it's knotted at 1-1. This third match is what's usually called a "swing" game, as the winner will typically go on to win it all.


Momentum


Turnovers from Dallas led to Miami's signature transition fast break offense, while the Heat set the tone early with a superb 1st half from Dwyane Wade. There were however some lapses in their team defense, which allowed the Mavericks to make a strong 3rd quarter run, eventually tying the contest at 57, with 4:36 to go in the stanza...cutting a once 13-point deficit.


Mario Chalmers has been a constant thorn in the Mavs' side, with great play on both ends of the court along with some timely 3-point shots. 


There's a saying in sports that states, it's not how you start, it's how you finish. Tonight, Wade was consistent throughout, with 29-points, and 11-rebounds, giving the Heat an 88-86 win, and a 2-1 advantage. 


Miami did what they were supposed to do, and now the pressure is on Dallas to win at home, and get back in this matchup or face imminent elimination.


Game 4 is set for Tuesday, at 8:30pm EST.


Words: @axgilbert


Picture: Ronald Martinez