Detroit came up short today against Philadelphia, falling 97-90. "That was a really tough game to lose," said Detroit coach David Smith after the game. "We came in thinking we could beat these guys. And we really played them well. But a few too many mistakes on our part kept us from getting the 'W'." One player who definitely can't be too downcast is Lacroix, whose outstanding game was one of the bright points for Detroit and caused some other teams to take notice.

Philadelphia was led by Roberson (14 points, 3 steals), Simmons (14 points, 7 boards, 3 assists, a steal, a block), Franklin (17 points, 6 boards, 0 assists, 2 blocks). Detroit was led by Lacroix (20 points, 7 boards, 2 assists, a steal), Martin (20 points, 2 assists, a block), White (11 points, 8 boards, 2 assists, a steal, a block).

After the win, Philadelphia are now 15-9 and 9-5 at home. They stay at #1 in the Atlantic and hold at #3 overall in the Eastern Conference. Detroit have lost their last 5 games and drop to 13-12. They stay at #4 in the Central and remain at #8 overall in the Eastern Conference.

box score Philadelphia roster Detroit* roster