Charlotte are leading Detroit in the Eastern Conference First Round 1-0 with a stunning 99-94 victory over Detroit created by Atkins. "I'd never tell my players this coming into the game, but I knew they were they better team and was just hoping to avoid getting blown out," said Charlotte coach Bob. "And aside from Atkins, Detroit was the better team out there and probably should have won. But Atkins was about as good as I've ever seen him, and we were able to hitch up and ride him to the win."

Detroit coach David Smith was impressed. "You certainly can't count on a single player to consistently steal wins for your team, but that's what Atkins did for them today. We just have to hope for a more human performance from him next time we meet."

Charlotte was led by Atkins (26 points, 16 boards, 1 assists, a steal, a block), Williams (25 points, 2 blocks), Morse (19 points, 2 blocks). Detroit was led by Kay (27 points, a steal, a block), Graham (17 points, a block), Henderson (9 points, 10 boards, 2 assists, 2 blocks).

box score Charlotte roster Detroit* roster