Game report: Wednesday at a glance
On the court
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Forward Ruben Patterson, warming to his role as a backup, played a very active game and finished with 19 points, six rebounds, and five assists. He had a big hand in the Bucks' rally late in the third quarter and early in the fourth that gave them a 24-point lead. "You have to play with spirit," Memphis coach Mike Fratello said. "You have to have it. It's diving for loose balls and taking charges. Somebody has to bring it. Ruben brings it for Milwaukee."
PLAY OF THE GAME: Early in the fourth quarter, Patterson drove across the lane, was fouled by Eddie Jones and scooped up a shot from near his waist that somehow went in. He made the free throw to give Milwaukee an 89-65 lead and the Grizzlies were done.
OFF THE BENCH: Guard Steve Blake was placed on the inactive list for the game due to a back sprain he suffered the night before in San Antonio and rookie Chris McCray was activated. Coach Terry Stotts put McCray into the game to play the final 4.5 second of the half but McCray stepped onto the court without his shirt tucked in and referee Jess Kersey immediately slapped him with a delay-of-game warning. "Yeah, we might have a little shooting money on Friday," said Stotts, referring to a small team fine that is imposed for such transgressions.
STATISTICS SHEET: As usual, when the Bucks share the ball, they fare well. They passed for 27 assists with six each coming from Mo Williams and Charlie Bell. "They move the ball around extremely well," said Fratello. "They have some good weapons. They take care of the dribble and move inside."
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