Jun 11 2009
Lakers Take Command
Los Angeles has a three-games-to-one lead in the NBA Finals after beating Orlando, 99-91, in overtime Thursday. The road win means the Lakers–should they lose Game 5 Sunday in Florida–will have two chances at home to earn the fourth victory they’ll need to claim the championship.
Orlando controlled the first half but turnovers enabled Los Angeles to stay close. The Lakers dominated the third period to take the lead but the Magic rallied the fourth period. Orlando wasn’t able to make the needed plays at the end of regulation. Derek Fisher’s three-point shot with 4.6 left tied the score at 87. The Magic managed just four points in the five-minute extra session.
Phil Mickelson shot a two-under 68 today in his return to the PGA Tour. Two-time Masters winner Jose Maria Olazabal is one of three golfers tied atop the leaderboard after one round of the St. Jude Classic in Memphis. Mickelson’s wife, Amy, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Treatment starts next month.
Nicole Castrade’s sizzling 65 put her in the lead after the first round of the LPGA Championship in Maryland. Michelle Wie carded a 70.
Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer both skipped grass-court tournaments this week that they won last year. Nadal’s knee is balky. Federer cited the hoopla after finally claiming a French Open crown. I hope they’ll be ready to play at Wimbledon in two weeks. Additionally, Ana Ivanovic fired her coach. Ivanovic was number one 12 months ago after winning the French Open. She’s now barely in the top 10.
