BRAMA, January 17, 2003, 9:00 am ET
After strong opening the Sonics drop a heartbreaker
— by Max Pyziur
January 17, 2003 — Yesterday, the Seattle Supersonics went into their game
in Utah against the Jazz trying to break a five game
losing streak after having a strong start earlier
in the season as well as handing Coach Nate McMillan
his 10th career win.
Their first half was auspicious with the Sonics leading
at the break 50-35 shutting down their opponents and
capitalizing on every opportunity whether from the
perimeter or in the paint.
He didn't start, but power-forward/center Vitaly Potapenko
came in to relieve starter Jerome James, at one point
shaking off three clawing Utah defenders to drive a layup
home. Having been fouled on the effort he got a free throw
and easily made the extra point.
Though they out-scored the Jazz in three of the four
quarters things soured for the Sonics in the third when
Utah changed its defensive strategy effectively holding
the Sonics to 11 points and reversing their 15 point deficit
to end up leading 69-61 at the end of the third.
In the fourth the Sonics regrouped not only holding off
Utah but making some gains, although not enough to change the
final outcome - 92-85, the Jazz winning.
In spite of the loss Vitaly Poptapenko's efforts continue
to show improvement coming off his 8 month break due to
a major knee injury. He played 14 minutes, made 4 rebounds,
shot 2 for 3 from the field and 3 for 3 from the free
throw line contributing 7 points to Seattle's efforts.
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