Spurs show teamwork in 111-102 win over Utah Jazz

SAN ANTONIO // The San Antonio Spurs took another step toward securing home-court advantage throughout the NBA post season with a 111-102 win over the Utah Jazz.

Having wrapped up the top seeding in the Western Conference, the Spurs are 1.5 games ahead of Eastern Conference leaders Chicago, with the Bulls having three games left to play.

San Antonio seized control of a close first half with a 15-2 run that straddled half time, and held off a surge by the Jazz early in the fourth that saw the Spurs' lead narrowed to 91-85.

Richard Jefferson scored 20 points and Tony Parker had 13 as all five Spurs starters scored double digits despite seeing limited action after opening up a large lead.

"All year long, and pretty much most of my career, whenever I score big numbers it's because my teammates got me the ball," said Jefferson, who connected on 4-of 7 from three point range.

"A lob from Gary Neal, some passes from Tony Parker early really got me going. Last year I struggled a little bit, especially from the 3-point line.

"This summer when I worked with the coaches I really focused in on that because that was my role. It's really helped me this season."

The Spurs bench added 44 points, led by Tiago Splitter's 13 and Gary Neal added 12 points, as San Antonio cruised to their fourth win in a row.

"I feel that is what makes their team so special," Jazz forward Paul Millsap said. "They have guys that can come off the bench and score the basketball. They truly play basketball out there."

Al Jefferson led the Jazz with 23 points.

RESULTS:

Washington 115, Atlanta 83
Houston 99, LA Clippers 78
Milwaukee 108, Cleveland 101
San Antonio 111, Utah 102
Denver 130, Minnesota 106