Biedrins

Andris Biedrins turned in an impressive double-double in his finest effort of the summer league, but Golden State dropped an 89-109 decision to the Boston Celtics in the team’s penultimate game at the Reebok Vegas Summer League. Golden State was playing a bit shorthanded as the team dressed only nine players, with both Zarko Cabarkapa (left knee tendonitis) and Chris Taft (back spasms) watching the game in street clothes.

Biedrins, with one-year of NBA experience under his belt after being selected by the Warriors with the 11th pick in the 2004 NBA Draft, tallied 17 points and 10 rebounds in 21 minutes of action. He connected on 5-of-8 field goals and 7-of-9 free throws, while showcasing a wide array of post-up moves and finishing several put-backs off the offensive boards.

Guard Monta Ellis continued his steady and impressive improvement, registering a team summer league high 20 points (7-13 FG, 1-3 3FG, 5-9 FT) - most of which came on speedy drives to the hoop. Ike Diogu finished with 15 points (6-13 FG, 3-4 FT) and seven rebounds, while free agent forward Jawad Williams finished with 17 points (7-13 FG, 0-2 3FG, 3-3 FT).

The Warriors fell behind 5-12 early in the first quarter, but a solid team effort got them back in the game as they closed the gap to 18-21 after one quarter.

In the second period, the Warriors outscored the Celtics 26-20 to take a 44-41 lead into intermission. Biedrins finished the first half with 15 points and seven rebounds. The third quarter was not as kind to the Warriors, as Boston took over of the contest by outscoring Golden State 15-34 in the period. Trailing 59-75 heading into the fourth quarter, the Warriors played the Celts fairly even in the final quarter, but the damage had already been done.

This contest will be televised on NBATV on July 21 (3:00 p.m. & 11:00 p.m.) and July 22 (9:00 a.m.). Golden State concludes its 2005 Summer League schedule on Friday when it takes on Phoenix at 8:00 p.m.