The San Antonio Spurs have long been known as the "flop artists" of the NBA. Manu Ginobili and Company have taken a dive in the lane for years, prompting frustration from Mavs fans and the entire NBA.

Turns out one young guard from Puerto Rico was a pretty good learner.

J.J. Barea drew two key offensive fouls on Tony Parker in the Mavs' impressive Game One win in San Antonio. Barea was also a big reason why Dallas is up 1-0 and looking formidable in this Best of 7 opening round matchup.

For the first three quarters, Parker consistently broke down the defense and got to the basket with ease. But Barea's speed and lane awareness changed things in the 4th, as the Spurs guard found his path a little obstructed. If Barea is able to maintain that type of position and keep Parker at bay, it bodes well for the rest of this series.

This is a key time for more growth for the tiny guard who could. At only 24 years old, Barea has gone from a part-time player under Avery Johnson, to one entrusted by Rick Carlisle. He gives the Mavs energy, has become a much-improved passer, and has a knack for hitting very long 3's.

It's way too soon to say that Barea is making us forget Steve Nash. But there's clearly more upside for J.J. than ever before.

Number 11 jerseys will be selling like hotcakes later this week at the AAC.

Leave a comment

Name:

Email:

URL:  

Remember personal info?

Captcha:

Type the characters you see in the picture above.