Everything clicked for Miami today, as they soundly beat Detroit 97-77. Detroit looked beaten for most of the afternoon, and the final outcome was in little doubt. "I thought we came out ready to play, but we were just overmatched," said Detroit coach David Smith. "It's kind of demoralizing to lose that way, knowing that you played your best and it wasn't nearly enough." David Smith now has the unenviable task of getting his team ready to face another day.

Miami coach Bob couldn't be happier, though. His game plan was executed perfectly, and his players were able to dominate all aspects of the game. "It's great to get a win like this, when everything went according to plan."

Miami was led by Crandell (6 points, 12 boards, 1 assists, 2 blocks), James (17 points, a steal), Perry (16 points, 6 boards, 1 assists). Detroit was led by Martin (22 points, 4 blocks), White (5 points, 7 boards, 1 assists, a steal, 4 blocks), Tatum (14 points, 6 boards, 2 assists).

Miami stand at 43-21 and 23-9 at home with this win. They hold at #1 in the Southeast and hold at #3 overall in the Eastern Conference. Detroit halted their winning streak at 5 games, and fall to 38-25. They remain at #3 in the Central and hold at #6 overall in the Eastern Conference.

box score Miami roster Detroit* roster