[BigDofBA]

OKC has always had a great crowd but I've noticed the crowd hasn't had the same buzz the last two years as opposed to the years when the team was going to the conference finals. Part of that is that the newness has worn off with the team and the other part is that fans have become a little complacent wanting more than just a bunch of regular season and 1st and 2nd round playoff wins.

There has been a buzz about this game ever since OKC won game 2. The fanbase seems re-energized. Also, Friday night crowds are always lot more crazy than Sunday night crowds.

Tonight's game for OKC will be what Sunday's game is for the Spurs imo.

In other words, I like OKC's chances tonight. GL

PS. I know everyone will say I'm a homer but I also have a track record of picking against OKC so I'm probably not as biased as you would think.

[Shark]

are crowds really that big of a factor in nba though?

[Don_Omarion]

I hope OKC and Hawks win tonight to back Cavs and Spurs next game

[BigDofBA]

are crowds really that big of a factor in nba though?

Not the biggest factor but a factor none the less

How do you explain some teams having a lot better records at home?

[Shark]

I chalked that up to the teams being more comfortable with the surroundings and their routine. I guess crowd would play a part but it wouldn't keep me from playing a team or not playing a team. I like that angle in NCAA sports though.

[JayDr3am]

are crowds really that big of a factor in nba though?

home court has such a effect on the game and even what the spread will be.. so to answer your question, yes.. extremely.

[Shark]

But is that really just because of a crowd? Half the people probably on their phones anyway.

[JayDr3am]

But is that really just because of a crowd? Half the people probably on their phones anyway.

lol rhetorical but yes its really because of the crowd.. home court brings a different spirit out of the home team

[NBA Maniac]

BigDofBA, that D. Waiters is a useless guy lol...
Bench need to step up....

(once again i will say, i'm not watching any games lol)

[KRIT]

Goin to pound town on OKC. I don't feel great about it because they are losers but it's part of the heavy 2-game chase.

[jtoler]

But is that really just because of a crowd? Half the people probably on their phones anyway.

No, its just being at home youre more motivated, there is a bigger desire to win at home with fans, friends, media, everything youre inspired to play for there, home is where you hear the good and bad about you, where the team is and the owner paying you. There's a mental, emotional, and physical desire to protect home.

[NBA Maniac]

Goin to pound town on OKC. I don't feel great about it because they are losers but it's part of the heavy 2-game chase.

as suspected, the line for game 4 is OKC + 1, after they lost game 3