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

Hunger

"And I've been waiting for this moment, for all my life..."


Phil Collins - In the Air Tonight


The Miami Heat made the most of their return trip to the Finals, defending their home court 92-84.


Teamwork


The Heat put together a total offensive and defensive effort, as LeBron James led with 24-points, and 9-rebounds, while Dwyane Wade added 22-points, 10-rebounds, and 6-assists...but it was their second unit that surprised the Mavericks, as Mario Chalmers played 27 crucial minutes...providing Miami with 12-points off the bench.


Game 1 means everything and nothing...it sets the table, and jumpstarts the series. However it's the visiting franchise that has everything to gain and nothing to lose. All you can ask for as the road team is a split, and flight back to their place with the home court advantage.


Even with the victory, the pressure remains on the Heat to take care of business on Thursday and go to Dallas with a 2-0 lead. 


Tonight the difference was LeBron James, and like the saying goes...heavy is the head that wears the crown...James answered the call, and he now stands 3-wins from a date with NBA history.


Game 2 on Thursday should be a much better game, and you can expect to witness an all out battle.


Words: @axgilbert


Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images