Nick Van Exel (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The San Antonio Spurs got an unlikely hero when they needed him most
In their bid for a second NBA title in four years, the San Antonio Spurs found themselves with their backs against the wall in enemy territory. Paced by the trio of Michael Finley, Nick Van Exel, and Walt Williams, the Dallas Mavericks had built a 69-56 lead over the Spurs in a pivotal Game 6.
Tony Parker had been rendered ineffective after a stomach bug had ailed him before the game, leaving Speedy Claxton with the task of squaring up against Steve Nash for most of the contest.