Slam Dunk Central

Between the rumblings of the possibility of New York Knicks coach Isiah Thomas getting fired and the recent death of Knicks guard Stephon Marbury’s father, Don, one would think that focus on the team would be in short supply. The Philadelphia 76ers shot 53% from the floor - including 7-of-13 from beyond the 3-point arc - as they dominated for most of the game, destroying the Knicks 105-77 at Madison Square Garden.New York played with little energy in the beginning, quickly falling behind by double-digits. However, they cut the lead to 24-19 after the first quarter. The Knicks briefly took the lead starting the 2nd period, but committed 6 turnovers and only scored 5 baskets in the period; as a result, Philadelphia regained control and to take a 49-37 lead at halftime. The Knicks continued their sloppy play on the 3rd quarter; Philadelphia would lead 75-57 after three periods, then Sixers forward Kyle Korver hit a pair of 3-pointers during a 12-3 run that would give Philadelphia an insurmountable 87-60 advantage.

Willie Green led all Sixers scorers with 18 points, while Andre Iguodala added 17 with 4 rebounds and 9 assists; Korver and rookie forward Thaddeus Young scored 14 each. New York was led by reserve guard Nate Robinson with 25, while David Lee added 10 and 11 rebounds. Philadelphia (7-13) returns home to host the Houston Rockets Monday night, while New York (6-13) continues their homestand and host the Dallas Mavericks, also on Monday.