A great game by Ortiz led Denver to a 114-96 defeat of Phoenix. Although Phoenix certainly planned for Ortiz in their pre-game strategy, stopping him during the game turned out to be more of a challenge. "We thought we knew how to beat Denver, but we were dead wrong," said Phoenix coach Bob. "We figured we'd try to put them out of their game plan and try to limit Ortiz's effectiveness, but it simply didn't happen - he was just too good."

Said Ortiz, "I knew I had a target on my back, and took it as a challenge. If they're going to change their game plan to stop me, it gives me that much more desire to step up and perservere. Anyway, they know what I can do now, so we'll see if they dare try this strategy again." Tune in next time.

Denver was led by Ortiz (10 points, 7 boards, 15 assists, 4 steals), Moore (20 points, 12 boards, 4 assists, a block), Strong (23 points, 5 boards, 2 assists, 3 blocks). Phoenix was led by Whitfield (12 points, 17 boards, 2 assists, a steal, a block), Wilson (15 points, a steal, 2 blocks), Kennedy (14 points, a steal).

Denver jump to 2-2. They improve to #2 in the Northwest and advance to #6 overall in the Western Conference. Phoenix are now 1-3 and 0-3 at home. They hold at #4 in the Pacific and hold at #13 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Denver roster Phoenix roster