--Coach Gregg Popovich's decision to move Manu Ginobili back into the starting lineup was made easier by Michael Finley. Finley told Popovich before Friday's practice the team would be better off having Ginobili start. Finley had started the previous 16 games.

"I think it's what the team is used to seeing," Finley said. "I think it's beneficial for all of us."

--After his poor performance Saturday, Tony Parker went to coach Gregg Popovich's hotel room Sunday night to watch film. Popovich told him he needed to be more patient and pass the ball quicker when teams gear their defenses to keep him out of the lane.

Parker apparently got the message. He went 12 for 13 against Memphis and also created for his teammates.

"It was a good talk," Parker said of his meeting with Popovich. "'Pop' always tries to make me perfect."

QUOTE TO NOTE
"If he can bottle what he did tonight, then we can become a hell of a team again." --- Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, after Tony Parker made 12 of 13 shots and scored 28 points against Memphis.

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