Aussies in NBA: Mills matches season-high vs Magic
Patty Mills had a scoring explosion against the Orlando Magic, starring in the San Antonio Spurs 107-92 victory.
He finished the game with 22 points (9-of-13 FGs, 3-of-4 3pt), 5 assists, 4 rebounds and 1 steal in 21 minutes, while posting a game high plus/minus of +14.
The 22 points matched the season high he had vs the Lakers on December 12th, and his 5 assists were his equal 3rd highest tally this season.
Mills came out aggressively looking for his shot and repeatedly punished the slow-learning Magic big-men who continued to sag back on the high screen and give him space on the elbows.
The warning signs for the Magic came early as Mills hit double-figures in quick time.
Patty Mills already has 10 points in just six minutes tonight. Spurs are 13-1 this season when Mills scores in double figures.
— Jordan Howenstine (@AirlessJordan) February 2, 2016
The two teams engaged in an arm wrestle for most of the game, and it required a Mills led surge to separate them.
He blew the game open in the 4th quarter when he had a hand in every point of a 9-2 run which effectively ended the game, including converting on this 4-point play.
ICYMI: @Patty_Mills with the play of the game! #OhMamapic.twitter.com/JP2tpqcl48
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) February 2, 2016
After being torched by the Aussie reserve, Magic coach Scott Skiles was full of praise Mills after the game.
Scott Skiles on @Patty_Mills: "That kid, he has made a career out of having a ton of energy and shooting the ball. He's had a good career."
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) February 2, 2016
Its a good start to the month for Mills who is coming off a lean scoring January.
This season Mills is averaging 8 points and 2.5 assists, shooting 44% FG and 38% 3PT.
https://youtu.be/7_ovecvMTjM
Mills' game today wouldn’t have done his popularity any harm.
Remember to cast your vote for your favourite Aussie in the NBA.
#AussieHoops fans: who's your favourite Aussie in the NBA? #NBAinAus#AussiesinNBA
— The Pick and Roll (@PickandRollAU) January 31, 2016