A solid outing by Monroe led LA Lakers to a 96-86 win over San Antonio. "Take away Monroe, and we'd have won this thing," said San Antonio coach Bob. "It was a very close game most of the way, and he was the one that put LA Lakers over the top. I thought we had the right game plan and executed well. What's sad is that I don't know what we'd do differently next time, except for hoping for a more mortal performance by him."

LA Lakers coach Andreas Helmle was happy for the win, but concerned about the team's play. "I didn't think this was a very good team win. Our players seemed tempted to sit around and watch Monroe do his stuff. That was enough for the win today, but on another day maybe Monroe will be injured or our opponents can counter him, and we'll need the rest of the players to step up as well."

LA Lakers was led by Monroe (18 points, 18 boards, 2 assists, 2 blocks), Washington (10 points, 12 assists, 3 steals), Miller (21 points, 7 boards, 3 assists, a block). San Antonio was led by Calkins (22 points, 7 assists, 3 steals, 2 blocks), Obryant (10 points, 6 boards, 1 assists, 5 blocks), Owens (17 points, 2 assists, a steal).

box score LA Lakers* roster San Antonio roster