Daily Dose - 76ers in the News Archives - March 2006

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers decide winning might be a good idea
No basketballs were heard bouncing yesterday at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, the 76ers' practice site. We can only assume that opinions and emotions, instead, bounced around during a meeting and film session with players and the coaching staff.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - 76ers urgently seeking urgency
The stress of the 76ers' late-season swoon seems to be getting to them.

3. Delaware County Times - Cheeks hoping to see better effort
PHILADELPHIA - Talking might not be able to fix the problems that plague the 76ers these days, but talk they did.

4. Calkins Newspapers - No more Mr. Nice Guy for Webber
PHILADELPHIA - Chris Webber made it clear after Wednesday night's 101-91 home loss to the Pistons that he wasn't happy.

5. Camden Courier Post - Frustrated Sixers seek more urgency
You didn't hear any basketballs bouncing or sneakers squeaking Thursday afternoon at the Sixers' practice site.

6. Trenton Times - Sixers cling to playoffs
Nothing personal against the man he considers his mentor, but Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks says he can't feel sorry for Larry Brown, who's going through his own 19-51 season from hell with the Knicks.

7. Press of Atlantic City - Next week could decide if 76ers are playoff team
PHILADELPHIA - The 76ers arrived at their training site Thursday for practice but never touched a basketball.

8. New York Daily News - Knicks' quit is plain to see
The doc who visited Larry Brown late Wednesday night wasn't a psychiatrist, although the Knicks' head coach might need one of them pretty soon. On this night it was Doc Rivers who met briefly with Brown following a performance by the Knicks that said a lot about their character and professionalism.

9. New York Times - The Circus Is Still in Town
Fred Klein has lived through three hip replacements, ankle and shoulder operations, triple-bypass heart surgery and two spinal fusions. His medical record reads like a grisly episode of "ER." But Klein runs down his chart with relative glee as he nods toward the Madison Square Garden court and declares, without hesitation, "That's worse."

10. New York Post - END OF DAZE
Knicks coach Larry Brown gave the strongest warning yet about sweeping changes he expects the roster to undergo once the season mercifully ends.

11. CBS SportsLine.com - If only Sixers, Hornets could have each other's coaches for a spell
The Philadelphia 76ers are struggling mightily to hold on to the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. At six games under .500, things have gotten so bad that certain execution at the hands of Detroit is a welcome alternative to missing the postseason altogether.

12. ESPN.com - League would amend uniform code to ban tights
After instituting a "business casual" dress code and cracking down on the length of uniform shorts, the NBA has identified its next fashion crusade.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Pistons, not Sixers, run on all cylinders
THE PLAYERS had their expectations: a strong chance to win the Atlantic Division, to secure a homecourt advantage in the playoffs.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers continue to slide
If last night's game between the 76ers and the Detroit Pistons was indeed a preview of the first round of the NBA playoffs, the postseason for the Sixers would last as long as it took ABC, ESPN and the rest to schedule four games.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Cheeks compares Pistons, '83 Sixers
It's clear that 76ers coach Maurice Cheeks admires the ability of the 2005-06 Detroit Pistons, owners of the NBA's best record as the regular season enters its final month.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Bob Ford | The 76ers believe - or so they say
You gotta believe. That was the message after the game.

5. Daily Local News - Sixers still cling to last playoff spot in Eastern Conference
PHILADELPHIA -- If there was any question that the Detroit Pistons are light years ahead of the 76ers, it was answered Wednesday night.

6. Calkins Newspapers - Sixers fall apart late
Apparently frustrated by the way some of his Sixers teammates played and acted during and after Wednesday's 101-91 loss to the Pistons at the Wachovia Center, Webber said what was on his mind.

7. Calkins Newspapers - Cheeks: These Pistons better than '83 Sixers
PHILADELPHIA - Maurice Cheeks was the starting point guard on the last major Philadelphia sports team to win a championship, the 1982-83 Sixers.

8. Calkins Newspapers - King could learn from Dumars
PHILADELPHIA - The smartest man in the NBA these days is also its quietest. So he stood in a corridor in the Wachovia Center on Wednesday, his face hidden by a shadow.

9. Camden Courier Post - Sixers can't match Pistons
There was a play early in the fourth quarter that summed up Wednesday's Sixers game quite nicely.

10. Camden Courier Post - Cheeks sees '83 Sixers in '06 Pistons
Maurice Cheeks sees some similarities between the Detroit Pistons and his 1983 NBA championship Sixers.

11. Trenton Times - Sixers' playoff hopes fading
PHILADELPHIA -- The Sixers keep sounding like a broken record, particularly the one put out by the British group The Monkees in 1966.

12. Wilmington News Journal - 76ers show little against Pistons
PHILADELPHIA -- The difference between the 76ers and the Detroit Pistons was as evident as the indifference with which the Pistons flicked the Sixers away, as if they were squashed bugs on a windshield.

13. Allentown Morning Call - Churning Pistons sink Sixers deeper
PHILADELPHIA | Mo Cheeks says he still believes, although at this point of the season, one has to wonder in exactly what.

14. Allentown Morning Call - Sixers just haven't improved
PHILADELPHIA | Maurice Cheeks spent a lot of time after the Sixers' latest loss talking about believing.

15. Reading Eagle - No intrigue in playoffs for 76ers
PHILADELPHIA As probable first-round playoff previews go, this one hardly piqued public interest.

16. Metro - Learning to live the NBA life
At 19 years old most kids are either off in college or still living at home.

17. Comcastsportsnet.com - Pistons Deal Sixers Third Straight Loss
With a balanced, dominant and deep roster, Detroit swept the season series against Philadelphia.

18. The Detroit News - Pistons trounce 76ers
Detroit sends message to Philadelphia, which is competing for the final playoff spot in the East.

19. The Detroit News - Wallace gets defense moving
Ben's energy helped get team back into groove after a series of high-scoring games.

20. New York Times - Knicks Let Their Defense Down. So What's New?
After 70 games, the Knicks are still working on the basics. And they do not seem any closer to getting them right than they did coming out of training camp.

21. New York Daily News - Larry and Knicks at a total loss
Larry Brown was using expressions like "mind-boggling" and it "blows my mind" last night, and unfortunately the Knicks head coach wasn't talking about the organization's curious decision to allow the Boston Celtics wear their home whites in Red Holzman's building.

22. New York Daily News - Disgrace grows at Garden
In lieu of giving us a meaningful game between two winning teams in the heat of a playoff race - what they had over at the Meadowlands, those lucky Jersey folks - we got a dead Knicks team and a Celtics club on life support at the Garden last night.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers look to make point against powerful Pistons
The hope is that the three games Allen Iverson has played since returning from injuries to his right foot and ankle represent nothing more than a blip on the 10-year screen of his career.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson says he's not at his best
Allen Iverson won't dwell on being tired from the grind of the long NBA season. The 76ers guard says he is fine "as far as my stamina and everything like that."

3. Delaware County Daily Times - Iverson: Game matters more to the Sixers
Nonetheless, this meeting at the Wachovia Center (7:30 p.m., CSN/ESPN) means a lot to the struggling Sixers.

4. Camden Courier Post - Crunch time arrives for struggling 76ers
If the Sixers don't have a sense of urgency now, they probably never will.

5. Calkins Newspapers - Veterans feel sense of urgency to improve
PHILADELPHIA - Over the last two days, two Sixers veterans have suggested perhaps the team's younger players don't have enough of the necessary sense of urgency required in the final month of a playoff race.

6. Wilmington News Journal - 76ers need urgency as postseason nears
PHILADELPHIA -- The 76ers have lost nine of their past 11 games. Their star guard, Allen Iverson, admitted that the sprained foot that caused him to miss four games this month is still bothering him.

7. Trenton Times - Sixers looking for confidence
PHILADELPHIA -- No matter what takes place at the Wachovia Center tonight when the reeling Sixers square off against the powerful Detroit Pistons, Allen Iverson says it won't make a dent in the psyche of the two-time defending Eastern champs.

8.Detroit Times - Playoff preview goes to Pistons
AUBURN HILLS -- Flip Saunders came over to Mavericks coach Avery Johnson after the Pistons' spirited 97-90 victory Tuesday and said: "I would like to do this seven more times in about three months."

9. Detroit Times - Parker: Don't be fooled, Pistons' defense is as stingy as ever
AUBURN HILLS -- Maybe Scottie Pippen had a migraine.

10. Detroit Times - Mavericks learn a few lessons
AUBURN HILLS -- Mavericks coach Avery Johnson likes learning something about his team every night.

11. Detroit Times - Pistons official backs Marshall
AUBURN HILLS -- The media guides claim there is one former Oakland University player in the NBA -- Rawle Marshall, who started at small forward for the Mavericks on Tuesday night.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - To make playoffs, Sixers can't afford to lose motivation
Are the 76ers, Maurice Cheeks was asked, playing like a playoff team?

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers need new life from their star
Instead of a strong run to the playoffs, Allen Iverson and the 76ers have headed in the wrong direction.

3. Daily Local News - Sixers lacking effort, motivation
PHILADELPHIA -- When 76ers coach Maurice Cheeks looks at the NCAA tournament he sees an "exuberant spirit" in the way the college players feel about themselves and the game.

4. Calkins Newspapers - Sixers don't look like a playoff team
PHILADELPHIA - If the 76ers are going to keep playing the way they did Friday and Sunday, they should petition the NBA to cancel their final 13 games.

5. Camden Courier Post - Struggling Sixers are still lacking sense of urgency
The 76ers are headed in the wrong direction at the worst possible time. They've lost nine of their last 11 games and need a win desperately.

6. Trenton Times - Cinderella won't be in the NBA Playoffs
There are no George Masons in the NBA -- or even a single player who went to the little Virginia school that has captured the heart of America.

7. The Detroit News - Offense isn't close to what it used to be
Burning questions as the Pistons head into their final 13 regular-season games:

8. The Detroit News - Forget about Mavs' blowout
AUBURN HILLS -- For the Pistons, playing the Mavericks tonight isn't about gaining redemption for their 37-point drubbing in Dallas on Nov. 19 -- nor is it really about holding on to their slim game-and-a-half advantage for the best overall record in the NBA.

9. The Detroit News - Arrogance gets to Pistons
T his will not be a news flash to anyone who has closely observed these Pistons the last few years, but they are an arrogant team.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - If you've seen this poor effort once...
INDIANAPOLIS - Somewhere there must be a Web site that will tell us the 76ers lead the NBA in making our eyes glaze over. It's one thing to stand around listlessly during ABC-TV commercial breaks; it's another thing to stand around when play resumes. Feel free to click on Google; you'll find you've seen this more than once before.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Dan Gross | Tyra, Tyler Madea cozy duo
IT'S NOT EVERY day that supermodels roll through Our Town. But Thursday Tyra Banks arrived with actor Tyler Perry at his play, "Madea Goes to Jail," at Temple's Liacouras Center, and the pair looked cozy backstage.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers again flat on defense as Pacers roll
INDIANAPOLIS - Less than 48 hours after the 76ers were outworked at home against a team that hadn't won on the road in two months, they again came out flat and uninspired while their coach complained, "We just don't do enough."

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Iverson, Webber's scoring load touchy
INDIANAPOLIS - It has become customary this season to note that Allen Iverson and Chris Webber score most of the 76ers' points in game after game. Yesterday, they accounted for 50 of the team's 79 in a 13-point loss to the Indiana Pacers.

5. Daily Local News - Pacers blow past listless Sixers
INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Pacers were going through some tough times when the Philadelphia 76ers rolled into town Sunday.

6. Calkins Newspapers - Little goes right in blowout loss
INDIANAPOLIS - The Sixers concluded a lost weekend with another dreadful performance.

7. Calkins Newspapers - Korver: No comment on offensive imbalance
INDIANAPOLIS - Kyle Korver wouldn't go there.

8. Press of Atlantic City - Jackson and Indiana cruise past slumping Philadelphia
Stephen Jackson poured in 23 points on 8- of-13 shooting to lead Indiana to an easy 92-79 win over Philadelphia at Conseco Fieldhouse.

9. Associated Press - Sixers Have Lost Six of Last Seven
INDIANAPOLIS -- After a season filled with turmoil and injuries, the Indiana Pacers finally are at full strength.

10. Indianapolis Star - Preferred lineup makes the grade
They didn't play perfect basketball - Jermaine O'Neal gave them a "B-plus." - but the Indiana Pacers, starting their preferred five for the first time Sunday, gave the indication they could be a dangerous team in the playoffs after beating the Philadelphia 76ers 92-79 at Conseco Fieldhouse.

11. Indianapolis Star - Both teams have evolved since Pacers played Heat
A lot has changed from the last time the Indiana Pacers and the Miami Heat played in the second week of the season.

1. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers scramble to maintain berth in playoffs
INDIANAPOLIS - Of all the statistics to peruse to try to explain the puzzle that makes up the 76ers, here's one that might get your attention.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - On the NBA | Meet the unsung heroes-to-be
You know all about the NBA's superstars, the Kobes and Shaqs and J Kidds; the MVP talents like Dirk Nowitzki, Tim Duncan and Steve Nash; the blossoming games of Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony and Gilbert Arenas.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Custom tailoring, making the man
For his internship at a hotshot New York public relations firm last summer, Penn student Evan Morgan wanted to stand out, even sartorially. So when he couldn't find the perfect shirts - ones that fit him well, in the bright colors he prefers - a friend directed him to custom tailor Marcos Vargas. Morgan bought four shirts for $120 each, joining 76ers forward Andre Iguodala and Pittsburgh Steelers running back Duce Staley as a client of Señor Custom Clothiers, Vargas' Northeast Philadelphia establishment.

4. Camden Courier Post - Sixers have not improved
PHILADELPHIA -- The 76ers can thank their lucky stars that they play in the Eastern Conference.

5. Camden Courier Post - Sixers Insider with Willie Green
How acquired: Drafted by Seattle in the second round of the 2003 draft and traded to the Sixers on draft night. Re-signed as a free agent on Thursday.

6. New York Times - Uniform Appeal
When word got out that the N.B.A. was going to institute a "business casual" dress code this season, controversy raged. Miffed players said that Commissioner David Stern's dress diktat — collared shirts, dress slacks, khakis or jeans and shoes to team-related events and a sport coat if out of action and sitting on the bench during the game — crushed their individuality.

7. The Star-Ledger - D'Alessandro: Pacers in danger of not getting their act together
It seems like it wasn't too long ago that we were listing the Indiana Pacers among those on the pantheon of title contenders. Since then, they've gone through hell and back with Ron Artest, endured their annual injury epidemic and -- so we're told -- are dealing with a schism between some members of the organization that we're not at liberty to divulge, at least until they decide that it's no longer possible to emerge from the abyss toward which they're headed.

8. Indianapolis Star - Carlisle devises 26th and final(?) lineup
Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle has settled on the starting lineup he plans to use the rest of the season. Carlisle is replacing Anthony Johnson and David Harrison with Jamaal Tinsley and Jermaine O'Neal.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - No magical night for the Sixers
THE 76ERS' nightly "Kiss of the Game" promotion isn't supposed to represent kissing the game goodbye. A "Flag Night" promotion isn't supposed to signify a flagging team.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Sources: Owls talk to Bibby
Sixers assistant coach Henry Bibby, a former coach at Southern California, interviewed twice for Temple's basketball coaching vacancy with athletic director Bill Bradshaw, sources confirmed last night.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - 76ers are too kind to visitors
The Orlando Magic are not exactly a feared team on the road - except when they take a trip to the Wachovia Center.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Jameer Nelson comes home as genuine starter
Orlando Magic point guard Jameer Nelson entered last night's game with the 76ers at the Wachovia Center in a different role. After starring at Chester and St. Joseph's University, Nelson returned home as a full-fledged NBA starter.

5. Calkins Newspapers - Orlando ends skid with rout
PHILADELPHIA — The Magic came into Friday's game having lost a franchise-record 16 in a row on the road, dating back to a Jan. 26 win over — you guessed it — the 76ers.

6. Trenton Times - Sixers have no Magic in bad loss
PHILADELPHIA -- The last time the Orlando Magic came to town, they left the Wachovia Center court smiling, courtesy of a four-point overtime victory over the Sixers.

7. Wilmington News Journal - With more to play for, 76ers still get 'outworked'
PHILADELPHIA -- The 76ers used words like "ugly" and "embarrassing" to describe their 102-86 loss Friday to the Orlando Magic.

8. Wilmington News Journal - Mashburn retires after being waived
PHILADELPHIA -- Chris Webber first met Jamal Mashburn as a 13-year-old at an AAU tournament in St. Louis.

9. Allentown Morning Call - Need a road win? Visit Philly
PHILADELPHIA | News flash to the fans of Philadelphia: The Orlando Magic are 17 games under .500 this year. Hard to believe, isn't it?

10. Reading Eagle - Believe in this: 76ers not good
PHILADELPHIA Samuel Dalembert's high-flying dunk attempt clanged off the back rim and caromed away.

11. Associated Press - Iverson Struggles as Magic Roll
Trailing by 10 points early in the first quarter and in the midst of a franchise-record 16-game road losing streak, Orlando Magic head coach Brian Hill knew exactly where to turn.

12. Associated Press - Mashburn Retires After 11 NBA Seasons
Forward Jamal Mashburn retired Friday, shortly after being waived by the Philadelphia 76ers.

13. Orlando Sentinel- Philly is cure-all for road struggles
PHILADELPHIA -- Too bad they can't play here more often. The Orlando Magic snapped their franchise-record 16-game away-from-home losing streak Friday night, pounding the more-than-gracious Philadelphia 76ers 102-86 at the Wachovia Center.

14. Orlando Sentinel - Nelson receives warm welcome
It's a big deal when Jameer Nelson comes back to Philadelphia, where he starred at nearby Chester High School and at Saint Joseph's. When the Magic team plane landed Thursday night, half the team went directly to his mother's home in Chester, where they dined.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Green re-signs, hopes to play
Maurice Cheeks said, "We're just trying to get him back in the fold, let him get some practice time."

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - With knee on the mend, eager Green re-signs with Sixers
The big, black brace on his left knee looked very restrictive, but Willie Green didn't allow it to slow him down much, either during offensive drills or working out one-on-one with 76ers assistant coach Bernie Smith.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Letters | GOP is bottling up reapportionment measure
In taking up the Texas-gerrymandering case, the U.S. Supreme Court may partly correct its failure to strike a similar Karl Rove design pushed through Harrisburg in 2001. But betting that this court will do that and, more importantly, set fair guidelines for the future, is a big gamble.

4. Daily Local News - Sixers strike two-year deal with rehabbing Green
PHILADELPHIA -- Willie Green is back with the 76ers after suffering a major knee injury last summer, though he's not expected to contribute to the team as it heads down the stretch.

5. Calkins Newspaper -Sixers bring back Green
PHILADELPHIA - Being on the practice court again was an enjoyable experience for Willie Green.

6. Calkins Newspaper- On the Air
"Seven" was an unlucky number as the number seven seed was upset in every bracket of our "Sports Broadcasters' Field of 64." Here are the results:

7. Camden Courier Post - Sixers re-sign Green for rest of season
When the curtain went up at practice on Thursday afternoon, there was a familiar face participating in the shooting drills going on at the end of the workout.

8. Press of Atlantic City - Sixers' teenage rookie learning on and off court
PHILADELPHIA It was time to take someone with the 45th pick in the NBA draft as the hour grew late on a warm June night, and Philadelphia 76ers president and general manager Billy King had a decision to make.

9. Associated Press - Sixers Acquired Green in 2003 Draft
Willie Green re-signed with the 76ers on Thursday, nearly seven months after the guard agreed to terms before injuring his knee.

10. Orlando Sentinel - Magic still look to solve road woes
Orlando needs at least one more win to avoid tying a club-worst season record away from home.

11. Orlando Sentinel - Magic at 76ers, 7
MAGIC UPDATE: They have won five consecutive games at home, but they have lost a franchise-record 16 consecutive away from home. The last time they won on the road was in Philadelphia almost two months ago.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - A.I.'s return lifts Sixers' performance
KYLE KORVER was splashing in threes as if they were raindrops landing in an ocean.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Reserve status clearly irritating Dalembert
Samuel Dalembert could have smoothed the waters. Instead, it was like pouring a little locker-room kerosene. He didn't mean to. He couldn't help himself.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson returns and Sixers roll
In January, when the 76ers won the first two games that Allen Iverson sat out with an injury, the rumblings grew that maybe the Sixers were a better team without their all-star guard.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Dalembert baffled, upset about not regaining his job
Samuel Dalembert came off the bench once again last night, making it 11 games since the 76ers center returned from a sprained left ankle and was unable to regain his starting job from Steven Hunter.

5. Philadelphia Inquirer - 76ers ignited by return of Iverson
After missing four games - all defeats - he scored 29 points to help the team manhandle the Hawks.

6. Philadelphia Inquirer - Bob Ford | A.I. is back, but what of the season?
Allen Iverson returned to the 76ers after a four-game absence last night, and if you were glad to see him back, that's nothing compared to how Maurice Cheeks felt.

7. Daily Local News - Iverson scores 29 in return as Sixers cruise
PHILADELPHIA -- The 76ers finally secured a lead too big to lose, though that didn't keep them from trying.

8. Calkins Newspapers - Dalembert remains at odds with Cheeks
PHILADELPHIA - Samuel Dalembert insists he's at peace.

9. Calkins Newspapers - Sixers roll in Iverson's return
PHILADELPHIA - Asked before last night's game if he would regulate Allen Iverson's minutes, Maurice Cheeks smiled and said, "I'm going to watch all 48 of 'em."

10. Camden Courier Post - Iverson returns to help Sixers end four-game skid
Allen Iverson was back, the hapless Atlanta Hawks were in the house and the Sixers, who had lost four straight games, were in desperate need of a victory.

11. Camden Courier Post - Dalembert wants to play more
Samuel Dalembert isn't clear on the reason he lost his starting spot, nor does he understand why his minutes have dwindled.

12. Wilmington News Journal - Iverson's back, 76ers win
PHILADELPHIA -- The 76ers were testy after an easy victory, which is rare enough for them lately, especially after they had lost seven of their previous eight games.

13. Wilmington News Journal - Dalembert confused about role
PHILADELPHIA -- Samuel Dalembert insisted that he felt no stress, that he was at peace with himself over his lack of playing time with the 76ers.

14. Allentown Morning Call - 76ers keep Hawks grounded
PHILADELPHIA | Not even the 76ers are capable of blowing a 22-point fourth-quarter lead, are they?

15. Comcastsportsnet.com - Iverson Scores 29 Points in Return
Still playing with a sore foot, Allen Iverson came back and invigorated fading Philadelphia.

16. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Rookie Stoudamire's season appears over
Philadelphia - Salim Stoudamire's rookie season is probably over. The Hawks guard could miss the remainder of the season with a sprained right elbow, Hawks coach Mike Woodson said after his team's Wednesday morning shootaround practice.

17. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Turning it over, early and often
Philadelphia - Much of the Hawks' success this season has come playing through co-captains Joe Johnson and Al Harrington.

18. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Ah, life on Wisteria Lane
The hits just keep coming for America's Team. If there's anything to the early grumblings that Salim Stoudamire's season could be over (courtesy of the surgery he'll need to fix the busted elbow he suffered during Sunday's win over Orlando), it's just the latest in a lengthy list of blows for a team that doesn't need anything else to go wrong in the last month of the season.

19. Orlando Sentinel - Howard sits early, then throttles Knicks
Who'd have guessed that the player benched for disciplinary reasons was not Steve Francis?

20. Orlando Sentinel - Career-low night leaves Steve-O 'cold'
What if they threw a homecoming party, and the guest of honor didn't show up?

21. Orlando Sentinel - Knicks' nightmare continues
And to think he still could have been coaching the Detroit Pistons.

22. Orlando Sentinel - Battie agrees to take less money for 4-year deal
Magic C Tony Battie agreed to re-sign with the club and take less money in 2007 to allow the franchise to possibly sign a big-name free agent.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Phil Jasner | This could be time for Cheeks to try Dalembert
GIVE MIKE KERN, my intrepid college beat-writing colleague, credit for being the motivational force behind this column. The other day, he offered his blueprint for the future of Temple basketball as the program steps in to the post-John Chaney era.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson back in lineup tonight
A sprained right foot has kept him sidelined for four games - all Sixers losses. He's sore but ready to play.

3. Calkins Newspapers - Iverson expects to return tonight
PHILADELPHIA - Allen Iverson said he was confident and somewhat surprised Tuesday.

4. Camden Courier Post - Iverson back tonight
The 76ers have been in a bit of a tailspin lately, having lost seven of their last eight games. They've dropped four straight without star guard Allen Iverson, who was out with a right foot sprain.

5. Wilmington News Journal - Iverson says he's ready to play again
PHILADELPHIA -- There wasn't anything good that came out of the 76ers' recent road trip, where they lost all three games and fell further behind the teams they are chasing in the Eastern Conference playoffs seeding.

6. ComcastSportsNet.com - Iverson Missed Last Four Games
Allen Iverson was back on the court Tuesday for the first time since spraining his right foot nine days ago, and is expected to be in the lineup for the Philadelphia 76ers against Atlanta on Wednesday.

7. Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Wrong team to trail
Auburn Hills, Mich. - If the Hawks had turned the ball over incessantly, dug a 21-point hole and then played lights out the way they did in the second half against any team other than the Detroit Pistons, they'd have had at least a puncher's chance.

8. Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Spirit: Belkin's suit is robbery
Estranged owner Steve Belkin's recent contention that he should be allowed to take control of the Hawks and Thrashers has drawn a sharp rebuttal from the teams' other owners.

9. Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Sekou Smith: Star Scout
I'm tired of second-hand reports and inaccurate information about the guys who could populate the draft field this June

10. Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Woodson praises late comeback
Philadelphia - Mike Woodson's tolerance for moral victories at this late stage of a trying NBA season is nearly nonexistent.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers trying to shake frustration
OAKLAND, Calif. - This was a scene that had become as painfully repetitive as the 76ers' entire season: John Salmons, clearly exhausted, reeled somewhere between total frustration and complete disappointment late Sunday afternoon, sitting glumly in front of his locker-room stall after nearly all of his teammates either had showered or dressed.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - 16 days later, loss haunts 76ers
Inconsistent defense has been a significant problem throughout the 76ers' 2005-06 season, but who would have thought that a shabby late-game defensive mistake would have turned this season around for the worse?

3. Daily Local News - Sixers cling to final playoff spot
The lone bright spot for the Sixers upon their return from an 0-3 road trip that wrapped up their Western Conference schedule proved to be Chicago.

4. Calkins Newspapers - So much for division title
The 76ers head into the final month of the season with different goals than they had one week ago.

5. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Wrong team to trail
Auburn Hills, Mich. - If the Hawks had turned the ball over incessantly, dug a 21-point hole and then played lights out the way they did in the second half against any team other than the Detroit Pistons, they'd have had at least a puncher's chance.

6. The Atlantic Journal-Constitution - Delk: 'Nothing but love' for Hawks
DELK'S REVIVAL: A sore hamstring kept Detroit guard Tony Delk from playing against his former Hawks teammates Monday night at The Palace of Auburn Hills.

7. The Atlantic Journal-Constitution - Sharp elbow leaves Howard in stitches
The Hawks welcomed former Southwest Atlanta Christian star Dwight Howard back to town with four stitches in his lip after he took an elbow to the face from Zaza Pachulia in the first half of the Hawks' overtime win over Orlando on Sunday afternoon at Philips Arena.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Fading Sixers looking for A.I.
OAKLAND, Calif. - This wasn't in the category of riveting, top-shelf basketball. But it was necessary, because the NBA schedule said so. And it had a certain level of importance, because the standings said so.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Eyes of the team turning to Iverson
OAKLAND, Calif. - The 76ers, in a tailspin following an 0-3 West Coast trip, are looking to their leader to help lift them out of their slump.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Defeat leaves Sixers eager to return home
OAKLAND, Calif. - The 76ers headed out of the Arena in Oakland yesterday exhausted, frustrated, angry, and ready to fly home.

4. Press of Atlantic City - Dunleavy leads Warriors past slumping Sixers
Mike Dunleavy had a game-high 28 points and collected 10 rebounds to lead the Golden State Warriors past Philadelphia, 98-89, at The Arena.

5. Assosicated Press - Sixers Drop Fourth Straight
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Now that Mike Dunleavy and the Golden State Warriors are all but out of the playoff picture, they're playing with the freedom and comfort they've lacked for 2½ months.

6. San Francisco Chronicle - Pressure's off, so Warriors are on
It was about three months overdue, but Sunday at last offered a reminder of what the Warriors were supposed to look like this season.

7. Contra Coasta Times - Warriors' role players follow Richardson's lead
Dunleavy's season-high 28 points, Murphy's double-double paces Golden State over 76ers

8. Oakland Tribune - Suddenly, Dunleavy a sure-shot
Former Duke star has season-high 28 in win over Iverson-less 76ers

9. Atlantic Journal- Constitution - Zaza's hot tip burns ex-team
Hawks coach Mike Woodson got his defensive stop, his team snapped a four-game losing streak and Zaza Pachulia can head to his summer home in Orlando with a smile on his face.

1. Philadelphia Inquirer - On Sixers, divided loyalties in the 'Nova-Arizona showdown
SAN FRANCISCO - Andre Iguodala and Michael Bradley can tell you exactly which team will win today's second-round matchup between Villanova and Arizona in the NCAA tournament at the Wachovia Center.

2. San Francisco Chronicle - Same old, same old, just more expensive
It's hard to know exactly when the Warriors decided to raise their ticket prices for next year, but if you believe that the marketing department is not actually nuts, you'd have to think it was pre-Christmas.

3. San Francisco Chronicle - Warriors add shot of Bynum to mix
Undrafted rookie Will Bynum went from small-time Virginia to the majors this weekend when the Warriors called him up from the NBA Development League. Now he has four games to prove that a return ticket isn't necessary.

4. ESPN.com - SPECIAL WEEKEND EDITION: Great expectations, bad results
If there wasn't a spot for Allen Iverson in the Team USA player pool, it shouldn't come as a huge surprise that the Sixers' other AI went uninvited as well. But if that doesn't change for Andre Iguodala in coming years, that doesn't mean he has no international future.

5. New York Post - SIMPLY NO ANSWER
HOOP DU JOUR WHY IS IVERSON BEING EXCLUDED FROM TEAM USA?

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers don't wait till 4th quarter to fall apart this time
LOS ANGELES - The 76ers have been like a wandering band of fishermen, saying, "You should have seen the one that got away."

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - In a switch, 76ers lose one early
LOS ANGELES - For once, the 76ers didn't have to go through an agonizing fourth-quarter fade leading to another disappointing and frustrating defeat.

3. Associated Press - Sixers Remain in Eighth Place in East
LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles Clippers were determined to come back strong from one of their most lopsided defeats of the season, and they did it with defense. Not having Allen Iverson to deal with certainly helped.

4. L.A. Daily News - Only Clippers have an answer
The Philadelphia 76ers didn't have an answer - or "The Answer" - for the Clippers.

5. Los Angeles Times - Losing Is So Last Year
Their last performance a sobering experience, the Clippers could have used a quick confidence boost. They got a big one Friday night in a 99-89 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers at Staples Center.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers' pendulum swings losing way
SEATTLE - Maybe the 76ers' logo should be a pendulum. Back and forth. Back and forth. Ad infinitum.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Joe Juliano's Sixers Report
The 76ers wrap up their season's competition against Western Conference teams with road games tonight against the Los Angeles Clippers and Sunday afternoon against the Golden State Warriors.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers start road trip by stalling in 4th again
SEATTLE - The 76ers must have thought that flying 3,000 miles to the West Coast would help cure their habit of failing to finish off games, but their old bugaboo must have sneaked onto their flight.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer- Sixers Notes | Road trip magnifies urgent need to win
SEATTLE - It is an NBA custom. Whenever a team travels from one coast to the other to begin a long road trip, the routine is to guess how many wins the team will gain before it returns home.

5. Trenton Times - Iverson Doubtful on Trip
SEATTLE -- Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks remains doubtful that guard Allen Iverson will join the team on its current three-game road trip.

6. Press of Atlantic City - Recap: Seattle vs. Philadelphia
Ray Allen scored 26 points as Seattle edged Philadelphia, 102-98, at Key Arena.

7. Associated Press - Iverson doubtful on trip
SEATTLE -- SEATTLE -- Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks remains doubtful that guard Allen Iverson will join the team on its current three-game road trip.

8. Associated Press- Sonics Rally Past Sixers, 102-98
SEATTLE -- SuperSonics guard Earl Watson was relieved that the 76ers were playing without his idol -- injured guard Allen Iverson

9. Seattle Post-Intelligencer - Sonics-Sixers game at a glance
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Earl Watson sparked the Sonics' second-half rally by showing his versatility. He scored 12 points with six rebounds and seven assists. And he blocked a John Salmons breakaway layup attempt with 20 seconds left to preserve the win.

10. The Seattle Times - Sonics wake up late, rally for win
This being March, the madness that inflicts college basketball sometimes spills over into the professional game and creates those rare moments when a pair of also-ran NBA teams create moments symbolic of the NCAA tournament.

11. The News Tribune - Watson fills in blanks for Sonics
Before the Feb. 23 trade deadline, if the Seattle SuperSonics were having a difficult time defending an opposing team's point guard, they had to languish painfully because they really had no other option.

12. Los Angeles - Livingston Is Still Uncertain
Clipper backup point guard Shaun Livingston, who suffered a sprained left ankle in Wednesday's loss to Phoenix, received treatment Thursday and did not practice.

13. Los Angeles Times - Celtics' 25-Point Lead Is No Sweat for Heat
Accustomed to comebacks, the Miami Heat staged its most improbable rally yet

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Iverson, Webber have early-morning chat about how to get Sixers back on track
SEATTLE - Chris Webber and Allen Iverson spoke at length on the telephone in the early hours of Wednesday morning. They posed various questions about the 76ers, didn't reach any new conclusions. Mostly, it was therapeutic

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Sam Donnellon | Ready or not, quarterly report on our teams
THE 76ERS can't get out of the fourth quarter. On most nights, the Flyers can't get out of their own way.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - Watching Aztecs a throwback for Webber
Chris Webber could only smile appreciatively at the latest link to the halcyon days of Michigan's legendary Fab Five. That was when he glanced at a New York Times story detailing how San Diego State - a team that has never won an NCAA Tournament game - showed up for a recent practice in the baggy shorts, black socks and shaved heads that represented the signature style of the 1991 Wolverines.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - 76ers stars conduct postmortem on loss
SEATTLE - Chris Webber says it's not unusual for him to talk with Allen Iverson late at night after every 76ers game to discuss what happened.

5. Calkins Newspapers - Sixers seek Net gains on the road
The Sixers start their final western swing facing a bunch of questions:

6. Camden Courier Post - Sixers still letting victories slip away
The 76ers, who have lost four of their last five games, boarded a charter plane to Seattle on Wednesday morning without star guard Allen Iverson.

7. Seattle Post-Intelligencer - Future is now for rebuilding Sonics
One by one, Sonics coach Bob Hill has pulled aside his players and offered advice for their summer regimen.

8. The Seattle Times - Sonics' Watson says role is "cool with me"
If you are having difficulty choosing between Sonics guard Luke Ridnour and newcomer Earl Watson, stop right now.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Bosh puts Sixers in dead zone
DID YOU HEAR the one about Toronto Raptors star Chris Bosh? He couldn't avoid the draft and went to Canada.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Ex-Owl Brunson puts hat in the ring to take Chaney's place
Rick Brunson never wanted to say it publicly, not as long as John Chaney was still the Temple basketball basketball coach.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - Raptors' Williams pulling for alma mater 'Nova to win it all
Guess which team veteran Toronto Raptors guard Alvin Williams picks to win the NCAA Tournament?

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Fourth and wrong: 76ers crash at end
How a team can go from confident and self-assured for three quarters to lost and clueless in the fourth is best left up to the world's great psychologists.

5. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Cheeks optimistic about A.I.'s injury
Maurice Cheeks said last night he felt a lot better after hearing that Allen Iverson had suffered a sprain and bruise of the right foot against Memphis, but admitted he was worried for a while.

6. Philadelphia Inquirer - David Aldridge | Step forward and be a star
OK, Kyle Korver. You say this is more than a two-man team? Show us.

7. Delaware County Times - 76ers: It's a Twilight Zone ending for Sixers
PHILADELPHIA -- The Toronto Raptors zoned up and the Sixers zoned out Tuesday night at the Wachovia Center as the visitors registered a 111-97 victory. Toronto (23-41) trailed at the start of the fourth quarter but outscored the Sixers, 33-12, in the final period.

8. Calkins Newspapers - Another late lead, another loss
PHILADELPHIA - A seemingly easy 76ers' win turned into an ugly loss last night.

9. Calkins Newspapers - Help on way at point guard?
PHILADELPHIA - With Allen Iverson expected to miss the three-game Western swing and Kevin Ollie's status uncertain, the 76ers are leaning toward signing a point guard to a 10-day contract.

10. Camden Courier Post - Fourth quarter dooms 76ers in ugly loss
It has become an all too familiar theme with the 76ers this season: The fourth quarter collapse.

11. Camden Courier POst - Sixers may sign point guard
Injuries to guards Allen Iverson and Kevin Ollie may mean that the Sixers will sign a point guard to a 10-day contract over the next few days.

12. Wilmington News Journal - 76ers perfecting art of collapse
PHILADELPHIA -- John Salmons sat at his locker shaking his head, shocked by the 76ers' sudden collapse.

13. Wilmington News Journal - King feels for friend Henderson
PHILADELPHIA -- Billy King and David Henderson were teammates at Duke University in the late 1980s.

14. Allentown Morning Call - Sixers find 0-zone in fourth quarter fade
PHILADELPHIA | All it would have taken, John Salmons said, was a basket or two.

15. Press of Atlantic City - Sixers stumble into no-win zone
PHILADELPHIA - The Philadelphia 76ers are about as consistent as the weather in March. They go from warm and sunny to cold and cloudy with alarming speed.

16. Toronto Star - Sixers have no answer for Bosh
PHILADELPHIA-Sam Mitchell was up on his feet screaming and pumping his fists as the fourth quarter unfolded here last night, the usual demeanour for the demonstrative Raptor coach who wears his emotions on the sleeves of his beautifully crafted suits.

17. Toronto Star - Emotional coach celebrates Raps' win
PHILADELPHIA-Sam Mitchell was up on his feet screaming and pumping his fists as the fourth quarter unfolded here last night, the usual demeanour for the demonstrative Raptor coach who wears his emotions on the sleeves of his beautifully crafted suits.

18. Toronto Sun - Fill-in Martin fills the basket
Darrick Martin, who acts like an assistant coach during games, came through in place of an injured Jose Calderon in a big way, leading the Raptors to a come-from-behind 111-97 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.

19. Toronto Sun - Raps searching for help
With the Raptors running into a slew of injuries, head coach Sam Mitchell said he and general manager Bryan Colangelo are looking into signing a player to a 10-day contract, and are scouting NBA Development League rosters.

20. Associated Press - Raptors Shoot to Victory Over Sixers
Without Allen Iverson, the Philadelphia 76ers had no answer for Toronto's zone defense.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - A.I. out for game, or more
He has been knocked down more often during his 10-year NBA career than a glass-jawed boxer. But 6-foot, 165-pound scrapper Allen Iverson, blessed with an eternal flame of a competitive spirit and an inordinately high pain threshold, always gets up, ready to again do battle with the giants who populate his world.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson to miss at least 4 games
The 76ers feared the worst when two teammates carried Allen Iverson to the locker room late in the first half Sunday in Memphis.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Decision touches basketball world
Word of John Chaney's retirement yesterday as the Temple men's basketball coach brought the expected - and unexpected - tributes from the basketball community.

4. Delaware County Daily Times - 76ers: With Iverson on sideline, Webber will have to star
PHILADELPHIA -- The news on Allen Iverson could have been worse. After he was helped off the court Sunday afternoon in Memphis, Iverson's right ankle swelled up and he was unable to walk comfortably. Later, his manager, Gary Moore, speculated that it could be a torn tendon.

5. Calkins Newspapers - Iverson to miss up to 4 games
The Sixers went 2-2 when Allen Iverson was injured earlier this season.

6. Camden Courier Post - Iverson's injury not as bad as feared
The news concerning the status of Sixers guard Allen Iverson wasn't great, but it could've been much worse.

7. Trenton Times - In playoff dance, seeds do matter
Only 16 teams get invited to the NBA's version of the Big Dance. And the truth is, the vast majority of them have about as much chance of taking home the Larry O'Brien Trophy as Winthrop, Belmont and Albany do of cutting down the NCAA Tournament nets in Indianapolis.

8. Trenton Times - Iverson out indefinitely with sprained right foot
PHILADELPHIA -- The Sixers will be without Allen Iverson when they step onto the Wachovia Center court tonight to take on the Toronto Raptors.

9. Allentown Morning Call - Iverson could be out a week
Just like the 76ers this season - even when it looks like the sun is shining, the storm clouds begin to gather.

10. Comcastsportsnet.com - Sprained Ankle to Sideline Iverson
Allen Iverson's injured right foot will keep him out of the Philadelphia 76ers' lineup for at least one game and possibly three more.

11. Toronto Star - Graham hesitating instead of attacking
Just steps from the Raptors' practice court at the Air Canada Centre is a poster for a movie coming out this month, The Inside Man.

12. Toronto Sun - Calderon's foot hurting
The summer can't come soon enough for Jose Calderon.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - THE BETTER END
MEMPHIS - This wasn't about strategies, statistics, tendencies, lineups or rotations. It was about something the 76ers deemed much more critical. It was about going out and taking what they believed was theirs.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Starring in starting role
MEMPHIS - This is a role reversal that is working far better on one end than the other.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - Dan Gross | Out and about
Sixers guard Andre Iguodala can hold his own on the court and the Wiffle Ball field. The friendlier A.I. played Wiffle Ball with kids from Manayunk's Dobson Elementary Friday afternoon while he, Kathy Romano, of WMMR's "Preston and Steve" show, and Sesame Street's Elmo appeared at the school as part of the Sixers' "Read To Achieve" book drive.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers win, but lose A.I.
MEMPHIS - The 76ers have suffered the late-game blahs recently, but they rid themselves of that problem yesterday in an unusual manner - without the help of Allen Iverson.

5. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson injures ankle; MRI set for today
MEMPHIS - Allen Iverson stood in the hallway of the FedEx Forum and described his new attire. The big boot on his right foot was courtesy of a sprained ankle that he had suffered with 1.5 seconds left in the first half of yesterday's 94-91 win over the Memphis Grizzlies.

6. Daily Local News - Webber steps up in Iverson's absence
MEMPHIS - The 76ers needed veteran leadership in the second half Sunday afternoon in Memphis, and they got it from Chris Webber.

7. Calkins Newspapers - Sixers end 3-game skid without injured Iverson
MEMPHIS - Four days after sitting out the entire fourth quarter, Chris Webber played the entire second half Sunday.

8. Calkins Newspapers - Dalembert needs more consistency
MEMPHIS - While Sunday's 94-91 win over the Grizzlies put a smile on the face of Maurice Cheeks, the Sixers coach wasn't pleased to read Samuel Dalembert isn't happy with his minutes.

9. Press of Atlantic City - Webber wonderful as Sixers down Grizzlies in Memphis
Chris Webber turned in a huge all-around game as Philadelphia downed the Memphis Grizzlies, 94-91, at FedEx Forum.

10. ComcastSportsNet.com - Webber Pulls Sixers Through to Win Over Memphis
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- The 76ers finally won a close one -- and did it without Allen Iverson.

11. Memphis Commerical Appeal - Iverson out, but Sixers respond
To the Philadelphia 76ers, the atmosphere may have felt like a home game.

12. Toronto Star - Raptors do the unusual
Finally, in a season chock full of misery, a little joy.

13. Toronto Star - James rallies the Raps
The Toronto Raptors have endured their share of heartbreaking losses this season, dropping seven games in overtime and losing six more by a combined 12 points. On Sunday they were determined not to let it happen again.

1. Philadelphia Inquirer - No starts, fewer minutes disturb Dalembert
Samuel Dalembert hasn't had a single start at center for the 76ers since coming back from an injury five games ago. He probably won't start again today in Memphis, although coach Maurice Cheeks said his decision "could change by 3 o'clock," the local starting time of the game.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - ABC broadcast rules bump 76ers to tape delay
The 76ers' game at Memphis today, which begins at 4 p.m., will be televised by tape delay beginning at 6 p.m. on UPN 57. That puts the game in competition with CBS's NCAA men's basketball tournament selection show.

3. Calkins Newspapers - Cheeks and Sixers not getting it done
MEMPHIS — If the 76ers plan on beating the Grizzlies this afternoon at the FedEx Forum, they could use a 10-point lead with 30 seconds to go.

4. Camden Courier Post - Cheeks has tough week
Coach makes questionable moves in three losses

5. Commercial Appeal - If Iverson isn't bringing size, he's packing a serious heart
The NBA's All-Star Weekend isn't quite like Super Bowl week -- nobody asked Kobe Bryant what kind of a tree he'd be if he were a tree (answer: the kind that casts a long shadow) -- but there were more than a few crooked questions.

6. Commercial Appeal - Preview: Grizzlies vs. 76ers
The Sixers and their opponents know what to expect from Allen Iverson, who is second to Kobe Bryant in scoring in the NBA. The X-factor could be Dalembert and his activity around the glass. Over his last 43 games Dalembert is shooting 56.9 percent. Dalembert is also averaging 3.07 blocks per game, second in the league.

7. USA Today - Ten years in, NBA's class of '96 feels like bragging
As far as Jermaine O'Neal was concerned, the proof was right there on the page. The Indiana Pacers All-Star was looking through a magazine when he spotted a list of the NBA's best players and realized he had something in common with a number of them.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers in need of a wakeup call
EVERY TIME the 76ers do this, you immediately flash to what could have been. If only they had finished opening night against Milwaukee. If only they had finished Sunday against Indiana or Wednesday night in Boston.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Cheeks: No intent to diss Webber
Chris Webber played 30 minutes, 43 seconds Wednesday night in Boston. He was more than ready to play more.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers let game slip away
The 76ers, having found two ways to turn wins into brutal defeats in the previous four days, found another way to cough up a lead last night thanks to an inability to make shots when they really needed them.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Cheeks explains why Webber sat in fourth
With his team coming off painful back-to-back losses, 76ers coach Maurice Cheeks said yesterday that he talked with Chris Webber about why Webber did not play in the fourth quarter of a three-point loss at Boston.

5. Delaware County Daily Times - 76ers: Late struggles lead to defeat
PHILADELPHIA -- With a string of nightmarish fourth-quarter endings fresh in their minds, the Philadelphia 76ers desperately needed a victory when the Denver Nuggets came into town Thursday.

6. Calkins Newspapers - Cheeks regrets his decision
PHILADELPHIA - Everything is fine. That was the message conveyed by Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks prior to yesterday's game with the Denver Nuggets at the Wachovia Center when asked about the situation with star forward Chris Webber after Wednesday's frustrating fourth-quarter collapse against the Celtics in Boston.

7. Camden Courier Post - Cheeks questioned about Webber
One day after leaving star forward Chris Webber on the bench for the entire fourth quarter in a loss at Boston, Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks was still answering questions about the puzzling move.

8. Trenton Times - Another lead lost, another Sixers defeat
PHILADELPHIA -- If there's a way to lose a game, you can count on these Sixers to find it.

9. Wilmington News Journal - Fourth quarter costs 76ers again
PHILADELPHIA -- This time, the 76ers had their meltdown at the beginning of the fourth quarter instead of the end.

10. Press of Atlantic City - Anthony, Nuggets down slumping Sixers
Carmelo Anthony scored 29 points and grabbed 10 rebounds as the Denver Nuggets came from behind in the fourth quarter to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers, 97-93, at the Wachovia Center.

11. ComcastSportsNet.com - Nuggets Blast Past Sixers in Fourth
Carmelo Anthony made up for a slow start with an excellent finish.

12. Denver Post - Johnson's defense paves way to win
Philadelphia - DerMarr Johnson performed another one of his trademark reappearing acts Thursday in helping the Nuggets come back from 15 points down to edge Philadelphia 97-93 on Thursday night at the Wachovia Center.

13. Denver Post - Martin, Najera remain on sideline
Philadelphia - The Nuggets continued to juggle their frontcourt Thursday as Kenyon Martin missed his third consecutive game with pain in his left knee. Martin said after the game that he would be a game-time decision in Toronto.

14. Rocky Mountain News - Karl finds Iverson antidote
PHILADELPHIA - It's easy to forget about DerMarr Johnson. He often goes long stretches without playing and never says much anyway.

15. Rocky Mountain News - Karl wants Moe to stay
PHILADELPHIA - There are no banners in his honor hanging from the roof of the Wachovia Center. His name can be found only in small print in the Philadelphia 76ers' media guide.

16. Rocky Mountain News - Tomasson: In plain English, goal is to be head coach
From NBA scoring champion to starring in the movie Amazing Grace and Chuck, Alex English knows what it's like to be a leading man.

17. Memphis Commercial Appeal - Gasol wants to end season with Spain
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- About a year ago today, Pau Gasol sat on the Grizzlies bench wearing street clothes and quizzical expression.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers suffer major collapse
BOSTON - Here we were again, at the intersection of opportunity and abject frustration. The 76ers have been in this very place so often this season, they must feel it's a second home.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Pierce's streak a sign of newfound maturity
BOSTON - The numbers have bordered on outrageous. Even in the championship-laden history of the Boston Celtics, they definitely are historic.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Celtics' Pierce fuels rally as Sixers' Webber sits
BOSTON - If Sunday's loss to the Indiana Pacers was disappointing for the 76ers, last night's collapse against the Boston Celtics was downright demoralizing.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Celtics' Pierce sees himself as example
BOSTON - It's as reliable as gridlocked traffic in the area of this city's notorious Big Dig, the expectation that Paul Pierce can score 30 points on any given night for the Boston Celtics.

5. Daily Local News - Sixers unable to hold fourth-quarter lead
BOSTON -- Stopping Paul Pierce has been tough for a lot of teams over the last few weeks.

6. Calkins Newspapers - Sixers collapse in final minutes ... again
BOSTON - The 76ers let another game slip away Wednesday night.

7. Calkins Newspapers - Lynch doesn't figure in Sixers' plans
BOSTON - Don't expect the Sixers to sign George Lynch anytime soon.

8. Allentown Morning Call - Pierce, Celtics deflate Sixers in comeback win
BOSTON | Paul Pierce had his first triple-double of the season with 31 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists to rally the Boston Celtics to a 104-101 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night.

9. Comcastsportsnet.com - Pierce's Triple-Double Lifts Celtics Over Sixers
BOSTON -- Paul Pierce's seventh straight 30-point game showed he can do more than just score.

10. The Boston Globe - Gomes starting to really cash in
Ryan Gomes is happy to know that you were convinced he could be an impact player in the NBA, because to be perfectly honest, he was beginning to wonder.

11. The Boston Globe - Money for Green
As he has done for most of the home games this season, Paul Pierce attended the prayer session before last night's game against the 76ers. The topic of the sermon: ''I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends." (We're not sure if it was the Beatles' version or Joe Cocker's.)

12. The Boston Globe - Uniform message was waiting for West
The Celtics made sure Delonte West could not dress for last night's game against the 76ers. They removed West's uniform from his locker before the point guard arrived at the TD Banknorth Garden.

13. The Boston Globe - Pierce has all the answers
Paul Pierce has spoiled teammates and the Celtics' fan base. They now live in a basketball world where anything is possible, where no deficit down the stretch is too large, where the most difficult 3-pointers fall with ease, where pressure has no place.

14. Boston Herald - Celts hit new high notes -- Pierce on fire again to key win
The 76ers made like Johnny Cash for most of the fourth quarter, the men in road black walking the (free throw) line to lead by as many as eight.

15. Denver Post - Road construction project lies ahead
Some NBA teams might consider it a tough break, facing a seven- game, 10-day road trip so late in the season. However, if you're the Nuggets, a team still trying to establish its personality, the lengthy foray may not be such a bad thing.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers work on end game
BOSTON - No matter how many times the 76ers watched the tape of the final three possessions of Sunday afternoon's game, it was still a 94-93 loss to the Indiana Pacers.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - King confirms interest in bringing back Lynch
BOSTON - As it turns out, Willie Green hasn't been the only player on the 76ers radar as a possible addition for the remainder of the season. Last month, they made a preliminary call about George Lynch.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - Letters | What's wrong with the Sixers?
BEING A longtime Sixers fan and having seen how inconsistent they've been, I feel it's time to unleash "the voice of the fan" to help GM Billy King, coach Mo Cheeks and even Ed Snider to realize why this team is going nowhere.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Struggling Celts await Sixers, itching for a lift
Not much has happened in the 76ers' world since they pulled off a thrilling 125-124 triple-overtime victory over the Boston Celtics nearly two months ago.

5. Delaware County Daily Times - 76ers: Defense is facing a tough task
PHILADELPHIA -- The 76ers practiced end-of-game situations Tuesday in an attempt to address the problems in Sunday's loss to Indiana. They could have a bigger problem tonight in Boston when they play the Celtics at the TD Banknorth Garden (7:30, Channel 57).

6. Calkins Newspapers - West getting bolder in Boston
PHILADELPHIA - Former Saint Joseph's star Delonte West was feeling it.

7. Camden Courier Post - 76ers spend time on late-game situations
In the final minutes of practice Tuesday, the Sixers were working on end-of-game situations with a one-point differential in the score.

8. Press of Atantic City - Loss on layup still stings Sixers two days later
PHILADELPHIA - Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks declined to give the Philadelphia 76ers' loss to the Indiana Pacers on Sunday a numerical ranking in the category of most difficult losses.

9. ComcastSportsNet.com - Iverson Deserved Shot at Spot
Allen Iverson is a scorer, and the U.S. national team is all set with those. Too bad. He's also a leader and a winner, and no team can have enough players like that.

10. ESPN.com - SPECIAL MIDWEEK EDITION: On the ball with C-Webb
He expects the Philadelphia 76ers to overtake the New Jersey Nets and win the Atlantic Division.

11. Boston Herald - Short-term help a pressing point: Backup plan needed if West injury lingers
WASHINGTON - With Delonte West's status questionable with a strained right groin, the Celtics may be in the market for short-term help at point guard.

12. Boston Herald - Pierce's buzzer-beater lifts Celts in OT
WASHINGTON - With the last grains of sand draining from the overtime clock last night, Paul Pierce decided to lean on an old shooter's axiom. If at first you airball. . . . oh, what the heck, try again.

13. The Boston Globe - Pierce shot beats buzzer, Wizards
WASHINGTON -- These teams can't seem to get out of each other's way. Leads are meaningless. Individual performances mean nothing until the final, frantic seconds. The only sure thing: It's going down to the wire.

14. Denver Post - Evans leading board revival
Simon Cowell of "American Idol" could not deconstruct Reggie Evans' first days with the Nuggets any more harshly than the forward has himself.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Salmons takes blame for Sixers' brutal loss to Pacers
This was a full 30 minutes after the 76ers' wrenching, 94-93 loss Sunday to the Indiana Pacers. John Salmons still had not digested it. He had finished his daily ritual of icing his knees, but he remained seated at his cubicle in the locker room in the Wachovia Center, staring straight ahead at... who knows what?

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers' aim today: Plugging holes
When the 76ers' full squad returns to the practice court today, coach Maurice Cheeks is expected to stress the right way of doing the things that his team messed up in their fade at crunch time against the Indiana Pacers.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Foxwoods casino plan for city involves three specific phases
The $350 million casino planned for the Delaware River waterfront in South Philadelphia that would be operated by the tribe behind Connecticut's Foxwoods Resort Casino would generate 954 jobs and $29.2 million in tax revenue for the city.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Inqlings | Mountain climb was a cancer survivor's high
If Valerie Kraus of Devon sounded a bit winded on the line, that's because she was standing 19,340 feet above sea level, in the middle of a snow squall.

5. Delaware County Daily Times - Iverson getting honors beyond Olympics
It probably doesn't take the sting off the Olympic snub, but Allen Iverson was named the Eastern Conference player of the week. Iverson averaged a league-high 37.3 points and shot 56.6 percent last week as the Sixers went 2-2.

6. Calkins Newspapers - Sixers remain positive despite setback
While Sunday's disappointing 94-93 home loss to the Pacers is the type of game that can affect a team, the 76ers remain confident that it'll only turn out to be a momentary setback.

7. Camden Courier Post - Iverson named East's player of week
The Sixers have played better, more energetic basketball since returning from the All-Star break.

8. Trenton Times - Snub of Iverson makes no sense
Maybe Allen Iverson turned off Jerry Colangelo when he asked to have one of those Andrei Kirilenko marital clauses inserted in his contract to play for USA Basketball. The one where Kirilenko's wife, Masha, allows him one extra curricular "activity" a year without considering it cheating.

9. Comcastsportsnet.com - Iverson Averaged 37.3 Points Last Week
Allen Iverson should insist he's not trying to prove something more often.

10. Associated Press - NBA | Hornets to return to play at home court
Six months after it was battered by Hurricane Katrina's winds and soaked by the floods that followed, the New Orleans Arena is back in business.

11. The Boston Globe - Celtics should shoot for lottery
There should be little to no doubt in the minds of real Celtics fans as to what they want to see in the final 23 games: hard-fought L's.

12. Boston Herald - C's ace chemistry test -- Changed team since big trade
WASHINGTON - Doc Rivers would rather leave out the names, but he'll all but hand you an invitation to connect the dots. The Celtics have a ways to go before they're considered a good team, but at least Rivers has a team to coach.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Webber weighs in on USA Basketball selections
Chris Webber doesn't want to hear about 30-year-old 76ers teammate Allen Iverson being on the outside looking in at the U.S. National Team.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Sappy ending
CHRIS WEBBER insisted the last 4.9 seconds yesterday against the Indiana Pacers should not - and does not - define the 76ers.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - Colangelo defends picks
Jerry Colangelo knew there would be pointed, even accusatory, questions about who was not invited to try out for the U.S. National Team.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers slip up late, lose to Indiana
With a chance to pick off another team in front of them and move up a spot in the Eastern Conference standings, the 76ers made a complete mess of the final 30 seconds yesterday and suffered a crushing loss to the Indiana Pacers.

5. Philadelphia Inquirer - Colangelo: U.S. needs balanced team
Jerry Colangelo said that if he were picking the best players for the team that will represent the United States at the 2006 World Championships and the 2008 Olympics, he would have Allen Iverson on the roster without question.

6. Daily Local News - Indiana sinks Sixers with late layup
PHILADELPHIA -- It was a giveaway game at the Wachovia Center on Sunday afternoon and the 76ers certainly gave one away.

7. Calkins Newspapers - It hurts so bad
PHILADELPHIA - Despite trailing for most of the game, the 76ers were in position to beat the Pacers yesterday.

8. Calkins Newspapers - Green expects to return soon
PHILADELPHIA - Willie Green insists he is one week away from playing NBA basketball again.

9. Calkins Newspapers - Cheeks comes up short with moves in end game
PHILADELPHIA - Where was the change? Why didn't Mo Cheeks make the change? You kept waiting for it.

10. Camden Courier Post - Failings in final minute foil Sixers
The game was right there, but the Sixers blew it.

11. Camden Courier Post - As expected Iverson not USA list
It became official on Sunday.

12. Trenton Times - Sixers let Pacers slip by them for win
PHILADELPHIA -- For 15 years, it was always "Miller Time" when the game was on the line for the Indiana Pacers.

13. Wilmington News Journal - 76ers can't finish off Indiana
PHILADELPHIA -- Maurice Cheeks said the loss hurt. And in many ways, the 76ers coach had as much to do with the 94-93 defeat to the Indiana Pacers on Sunday as anyone.

14. Allentown Morning Call - Sixers unravel at the end
PHILADELPHIA | Sunday's game with Indiana followed almost exactly the same pattern as the 76ers' season has this year.

15. Allentown Morning Call - A 'job description' that Iverson doesn't fit
PHILADELPHIA | Jermaine O'Neal remembers practicing with Allen Iverson before the 2003 Olympic qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico.

16. Press of Atlantic City - Jackson lifts Pacers past Sixers
Stephen Jackson had 15 points, including the game-winning basket with 2.9 seconds remaining, to lift the Indiana Pacers over the Philadelphia 76ers, 94-93, at the Wachovia Center.

17. Reading Eagle - Cheeks wobbly at the helm
This is how decent a man Maurice Cheeks is: Minutes after an indigestible 94-93 loss to Indiana Sunday afternoon, a loss that had a bigger wince rating than a red-hot needle to the eye, Cheeks took the time to neatly rearrange reporters' scattered tape recorders.

18. ComcastSportsNet.com - Jackson's Last-Second Layup Sinks Sixers
Stephen Jackson atoned for a bunch of misses with one clutch play.

19. FOXSports.com - Iverson deserves better from USA Basketball
Throughout his 10-year NBA career, Philadelphia 76ers guard Allen Iverson has been called many things, ranging from spectacular to selfish.

20. Indianapolis Star - Jackson on target this time
PHILADELPHIA -- Just three-tenths of a second separated the Indiana Pacers from the same position they were in two days earlier.

21. Indianapolis Star - Johnson comes through in 2nd half
PHILADELPHIA -- All it took was a conversation with his coach at halftime for Indiana Pacers point guard Anthony Johnson to turn things around.

1. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson, Webber top Sixers' list of heroes
The 76ers aren't doing everything perfectly these days, but they're doing enough to find themselves in the middle of a certifiable hot streak thanks to a little something from a lot of people.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - 76ers' Hunter is not bitter - he is even better
One month ago, Steven Hunter was idly sitting around wondering how he could be unwanted by two teams, after being traded by the 76ers, and prevented by the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets from playing, while results of his physical were being analyzed.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Stephen A. Smith | U.S. team is all about Bryant
You applaud when you see the names LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. You say "about time" when you see a shooter such as Michael Redd on the list.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sports Media | Poll aside, Wheeler is the man
The fans have spoken quite loudly about longtime Phillies radio and TV announcer Chris Wheeler. The mostly disgruntled voices have been heard through more than 180 e-mails we received about last week's column praising Wheeler.

5. Camden Courier Post - Iverson deserves a shot
PHILADELPHIA -- What's wrong with the picture when one of the NBA's biggest stars comes out and says he wants to play for his country, and he's not given the opportunity?

6. Camden County Post - Sixers Insider with Louis Williams
How acquired: Selected by the Sixers with the 45th pick (in the second round) of the 2005 NBA Draft out of South Gwinnett High School.

7. Wilimington News Journal - 76ers boost playoff hopes with streak
PHILADELPHIA -- The 76ers have shown this season that a hot streak can take them as high as the third spot in the Eastern Conference, and that a cold streak can take them out of the playoff picture entirely.

8. Allentown Morning Call - Webber wants Sixers to start thinking divisional championship
Mo Cheeks says its because his team finally has accepted the importance of playing to win ''every game.''

1. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson, Webber head list of heroes
The 76ers aren't doing everything perfectly these days, but they're doing enough to find themselves in the middle of a certifiable hot streak thanks to a little something from a lot of people.

2. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Iguodala ignored? Not so, says Cheeks
After scoring 58 points in his first three games after the all-star break, Andre Iguodala has managed just 11 points and has seen his playing time cut by 15 minutes per contest in the last two games.

3. Delaware County Times - 76ers: Iverson, Webber cast a spell on Wizards
PHILADELPHIA -- Allen Iverson pulled off a rare back-to-back feat Friday night and the 76ers reaped the benefits. Iverson scored 47 points and dished 12 assists to lead the Sixers past Washington, 119-113, in front of just 14,832 at the Wachovia Center.

4. Calkins Newspapers - Iverson, Webber erupt
PHILADELPHIA - The Wizards knew what play the Sixers were going to run all night Friday.

5. Calkins Newspapers - Webber: Sixers can win division
PHILADELPHIA — Chris Webber is confident in the Sixers, although his friends don’t seem to share Webber’s optimism.

6. Camden Courier Post - Sixers' offense sizzles
Allen Iverson cupped his hand to his left ear and raced along the sideline, slapping hands with fans seated courtside at the Wachovia Center.

7. Camden Courier Post - Green nears return for Sixers
There's a chance that guard Willie Green could be back with the Sixers soon.

8. Trenton Times - Hot Sixers hang on vs. Wizards
PHILADELPHIA -- Don't tell Allen Iverson, Chris Webber and the Sixers they're over the proverbial hump. Don't try to convince Maurice Cheeks they've turned the corner and are finally headed in the right direction.

9. Wilmington News Journal - Iverson, Webber team up for 77 points in 76ers win
PHILADELPHIA -- Defense and rebounding weren't going to win this game for the 76ers.

10. Wilmington News Journal - Olympic snub not bugging A.I.
PHILADELPHIA -- The invitations to the 22 NBA players who will be asked to try out for the U.S. Olympic team in 2008 will go out Sunday.

11. Allentown Morning Call - Sixers' A.I., C-Webb K.O. Wizards
OK, who are these guys and what have they done with the 76ers?

12. Washington Post - PERSONNEL DEPT.
Entering last night's game, Allen Iverson, Chris Webber and Andre Iguodala were the league's highest-scoring trio (64.9 ppg), just ahead of Gilbert Arenas, Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler (64.7 ppg).

13. Washington Post - Iverson Wins Duel, and Game
PHILADELPHIA, March 3 -- The Washington Wizards and Philadelphia 76ers have spent their seasons battling inconsistency while riding the respective brilliance of Gilbert Arenas and Allen Iverson on a near-nightly basis.

14. Washington Times - Iverson sinks Wizards
PHILADELPHIA -- Allen Iverson might not be what USA Basketball is looking for, but he's doing just fine this season.

15. Washington Times - Wizards Report
KEY TO THE GAME: Allen Iverson was unstopable, finishing with 47 points and 12 assists.

16. Indianapolis Star - Pacers let Celtics bank a win
Stephen Jackson could have had the last laugh on Paul Pierce.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Why not pick A.I.?
ALL HE WANTS TO DO is erase the bad taste winning the bronze medal brought to his mouth as a member of the USA men's basketball team at the 2004 Olympics in Athens.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Iverson dealing with Team USA snub
HOUSTON - This is about the invitation that never came. Allen Iverson says he can live with it.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - John Smallwood | A.I. victim of USA's Nike deal? If the shoe fits...
YO, MONEY, it's gotta be the shoes.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers hope new magic enough to break spell Wizards cast on them
The 76ers will be the first to admit that this has been a frustrating season for them. But in each of their five games since the all-star break, they have managed to peel away a little of the frustration while starting to find some hope.

5. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Report
The 76ers play three of their next four games at home. They will look for their first victory over the Washington Wizards this season tonight at the Wachovia Center and host the Indiana Pacers on Sunday afternoon.

6. Calkins Newspapers - Iverson, Korver carry load for Sixers
By going 4-1 since the all-star break, the 76ers have put themselves in better playoff position.

7. Camden Courier Post - 76ers get another shot vs. Wizards
The 76ers probably have already seen enough of the Washington Wizards this season.

8. Press of Atlantic City - He still got game: A.I. the man in Philly
He's not the same player that faked Michael Jordan out of his shoes with a nasty cross-over, but Sixers guard Allen Iverson still has plenty of game left in his skinny physique.

9. The Washington Post - Wizards Look to Regain Focus
Moments after getting hit across his shooting arm by Pacers center David Harrison -- a play that did not draw a foul call but did result in an air ball late in Wednesday's 99-93 home loss to Indiana -- an incredulous Antonio Daniels walked to the Washington bench and pleaded with Coach Eddie Jordan.

10. The Washington Times - A real team, finally
Jerry Colangelo is attempting to assemble a genuine basketball team, as opposed to a collection of hastily assembled All-Stars, following the lackluster performance of Team USA in the FIBA World Championship in 2002 and the Athens Games in 2004.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - McGrady: Iverson deserved invitation from Team USA
HOUSTON - For purposes of full disclosure, Tracy McGrady readily acknowledges that Allen Iverson is "a real good friend."

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Iverson has look that kills Rockets
It is the look on Allen Iverson's face as he tears an opposing team apart. It is the look he had as he skewered the Houston Rockets for 40 points and 10 assists in last night's 106-101 victory.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - John Smallwood | Excluding AI D-grading
USA Basketball should have included Allen Iverson on its preliminary roster for 2006 World Championships and 2008 Olympic teams.

4. Philadelphia Daily News - HE'S GAME
FOR YEARS, Allen Iverson couldn't get a break in this town. Instantly labeled a thug, he had "a posse," wore his hair in cornrows, adorned his skinny body with tattoos. A parent's hip-hop nightmare come true.

5. Philadelphia Daily News - HOT SPOTS FOR BIG SHOTS
Where do some of the big shots chow down?

6. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Dalembert glad to return to action
HOUSTON - Samuel Dalembert couldn't wait to get back into the 76ers' lineup last night after sitting out the last three games because of a sprained left ankle.

7. Philadelphia Inquirer - Iverson has the answer for 76ers
HOUSTON - A lot can be said for how the 76ers need to play good team basketball to win, involving everyone on the offensive end if they want to be considered a playoff team.

8. Associated Press - Iverson out; others confirm national team invitations
Allen Iverson is looking forward to spending the summer at home with his family rather than in Japan with Team USA.

9. Associated Press - Iverson scores 40 as Sixers rally past Rockets
Allen Iverson scored 40 points, including 12 in the fourth quarter, and the Philadelphia 76ers rallied to beat the Houston Rockets 106-101 on Wednesday night.

10. Comcastsportsnet.com - Iverson Pours in 40 to Lead Sixers
HOUSTON (AP) -- Even though Allen Iverson scored 40 points, the Philadelphia 76ers knew it took a team effort to rally past the Houston Rockets.

11. Houston Chronicle - 76ers shoot past Rockets
The Rockets could have scribbled a No. 20 on their sneakers. They could have worn wristbands or shaved their heads shiny.

12. Washington Post - Wizards Trip in 2nd Half
The Washington Wizards did enough things right to beat the Indiana Pacers and take over sole possession of fifth place in the Eastern Conference last night, but a failure to execute one of the game's basic skills -- free throw shooting -- sent an MCI Center crowd of 13,411 home frustrated following a 99-93 loss.

13. Washington Times - Wizards foul at home
The Indiana Pacers were perfect at the foul line last night, which allowed them to take advantage of the Washington Wizards' imperfections.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Webber's glass is half-full
HOUSTON - Chris Webber, for his own reasons, sees things in the 76ers that others struggle to visualize.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Letters | If Harry Kalas ain't broke, please don't try to fix him
The only thing that seems consistent from year to year with the Phillies is the broadcast booth. So, Mr. Montgomery, please leave the broadcast team alone and put the new guy at the end of the line. Not Larry Anderson.

3. Philadelphia Inquirer - Webber says U.S. team should be for winners
HOUSTON - Chris Webber says he wishes he had been approached about being a part of the USA Basketball senior national team that will be introduced Sunday on national television.

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Ashley Fox | What About A.I.?
The fact that Allen Iverson agreed to play in the 2004 Olympics, and then actually did, should be reason enough for USA Basketball to include him on the team that will try to qualify for Beijing in 2008.

5. ESPN.com - Bryant, James, Wade among those on U.S. roster
Josh Howard, Luke Ridnour, Shane Battier, Rashard Lewis and Brad Miller are among those going to training camp with Team USA. Lamar Odom and Allen Iverson are not.

6. ESPN.com - Report: Iverson snubbed for Team USA
PHILADELPHIA - Allen Iverson apparently will not have a second shot to win Olympic gold.

7. Gwinnett Daily Post - Williams wonders about college, but has no regrets
ATHENS - There are rare moments when Louis Williams thinks about running the court with old friends Mike Mercer and Billy Humphrey. Those thoughts arrive at different times, different places.

8. Houston Chronicle - March to playoffs needed
If the Rockets had not turned the corner in what had been a miserable season, they were at the least peeking around the bend when the Phoenix Suns visited Toyota Center on Monday night.

1. Philadelphia Daily News - Sixers fall behind early, can't handle mighty Mavericks
DALLAS - The Dallas Mavericks can be down 24 points to Toronto and come back to win in overtime. They can be down 19 to Memphis and come back to win in regulation.

2. Philadelphia Daily News - Sources: A.I. not invited to play for USA
DALLAS - Allen Iverson was, in many ways, the face of the U.S. Olympic basketball team in 2004.

3. Philadelphia Daily News - Dan Gross | Film producer Careys on
IF LEE DANIELS can get Mariah Careyas naked as he got Halle Berry in "Monster's Ball," then we're all for the producer's choice to cast her in "Tennessee."

4. Philadelphia Inquirer - Sixers Notes | Iverson isn't selected for U.S. national team
DALLAS - On Sunday, USA Basketball will announce the 25 members of its senior men's national team. Those players will vie for a spot on the squad that will compete in this summer's world championships and the 2008 Olympics.

5. Philadlephia Inquirer - Mavs' flurry buries 76ers
DALLAS - Winning three straight games after the all-star break gave the 76ers a good dose of confidence, but masked their problems on defense and under the boards.

6. Daily Local News - Surging Mavs snap Sixers' win streak
DALLAS -- The Dallas Mavericks showed early in Monday night's game why they're the best team in the Western Conference.

7. Camden Matters - UWCC & 76ers: United Way Joins 76ers Samuel Dalembert to Honor Camden Youth
United Way of Camden County (UWCC), courtesy of 76ers Samuel Dalembert, provided 56 76ers game tickets for February 22 and February 25 to Hopeworks, The Center For Family Services, and The Work Group of Camden County to support less- fortunate youth trying to lift themselves out of poverty with dignity through hard work and active participation in community services.

8. Comcastsportsnet.com -
DALLAS -- The Dallas Mavericks were concerned when top scorer and rebounder Dirk Nowitzki limped to the locker room after spraining his ankle in the first minute of the third quarter.

9. The Dallas Morning News - Mavs' fab Feb. ends with 104-92 win
If this were a car race, the Mavericks would have spent Monday making final adjustments to the carburetor and tweaking the engine parts to make sure they are legal.

10. The Dallas Morning News - Armstrong displays his value
Appearances aside, Darrell Armstrong doesn't just pop off the bench after two weeks on a beach somewhere and instantly energize the Mavericks.

11. THe Dallas Morning News - This is why no team should feel smug about its accomplishments in late February.
This is why no team should feel smug about its accomplishments in late February.

12. Star-Telegram - Mavs romp in warmup
The Mavericks were dunking, pressing, 3-point-shooting fools from the outset Monday night, and the Philadelphia 76ers spent rest of the game playing catch-up.

13. Star-Telegram - AROUND THE RIM
Colangelo to join Raptors: Phoenix Suns president and general manager Bryan Colangelo swung a midseason deal: He's switching teams.

14. Star-Telegram - Avery's success foreseen
DALLAS -- Philadelphia 76ers forward Chris Webber said he's definitely not surprised Avery Johnson has been a successful NBA coach.

15. Houston Chronicle - Suns complete series sweep of Rockets
Yao Ming was rolling in ways he had not even hinted at in his previous two games against the Suns, and the Rockets were on their way to a 12-point lead when the announcement was made at Toyota Center that Yao had been named the Western Conference's