Detroit downed Atlanta today 114-104, thanks to a solid effort by star Day. The game lived up to its hype, with both teams having their moments but neither side able to dominate for any extended length of time. Said Day after the game, "This one could have easily gone either way. We're just glad that we came out with the win." Coach David Smith echoed the sentiments, saying "Atlanta came out strong and ready to play, and we knew from the start that it would be a battle out there. Probably if we played them 10 times, both sides would get five wins. But we got the win today, and that's what counts."

Atlanta players were disappointed after the game, and coach Bob had his hands full keeping their spirits up. "They know they played their hearts out today, and that it wasn't enough. That's a tough feeling. Especially for Baker, who had one heck of a game but couldn't carry the whole team on his shoulders."

Detroit was led by Day (30 points, 12 boards, 3 assists), Reynolds (15 points, 14 boards, 0 assists, 5 blocks), Riffe (18 points). Atlanta was led by Baker (25 points, 6 boards, 2 assists, a steal, 3 blocks), Chandler (15 points, 5 boards, 6 assists, a block), Laws (16 points, 0 assists, a steal, 2 blocks).

Detroit improve to 9-3 after today's win. They remain at #1 in the Central and stay at #1 overall in the Eastern Conference. After this defeat, Atlanta fall to 7-6 and 6-4 at home. They fall to #2 in the Southeast and drop to #8 overall in the Eastern Conference.

box score Detroit* roster Atlanta roster