Pistons Drop Fifth in a Row

Kenny Anderson scored 15 of his 29 points in the fourth quarter as the Portland Trail Blazers came back from a 12-point halftime deficit Monday night to win their fifth in a row, 86-82, over the visiting Detroit Pistons.

The Pistons, who led by as many 15 points in the second quarter, lost their fifth consecutive game, their longest skid since Doug Collins became coach.

The Blazers’ 5-1 start is their best since they went 6-0 in 1992.

“One of the most impressive things about our team is its resilience,” Portland Coach Mike Dunleavy said. “We’re a young team, but I like our character. There has been zero quit period, not even a thought along those lines. I think we’re building some confidence in we’re able to do this night after night.”

Anderson scored Portland’s first seven points in the fourth quarter, then clinched the victory with seven free throws down the stretch. He also had 11 assists.

“Kenny Anderson was spectacular,” Collins said. “It’s the best I’ve seen him play.”

Isaiah Rider scored nine points in the third quarter as the Blazers erased most of a 47-35 halftime deficit and trailed, 62-60, entering the fourth quarter.

Arvydas Sabonis had 20 points and 11 rebounds for Portland before fouling out with 4:08 to play.

Grant Hill scored 21 points for Detroit and Brian Williams added 19.

San Antonio 100, Toronto 98--David Robinson scored 32 points and the Spurs overcame 28 turnovers and a 15-point first-half deficit to win at Toronto.

The Raptors, who dropped to 1-5, had a chance to win, but Damon Stoudamire’s desperation three-point shot at the buzzer went in and out.

“Let’s get one thing straight,” said Chuck Person, who was playing his first game of the season after missing all of last year because of a back injury. “Late in the game, when we need a bucket, David Robinson is still the man we go to on this team. If he’s not open, then maybe we go to Tim Duncan.”

Robinson made 12 of 17 shots from the field as the Spurs shot 63.1% from the floor to make up for the turnovers, which resulted in 32 Toronto points.

Sean Elliot added 17 points and Duncan had 15 points and a team-high eight rebounds as the Spurs improved to 5-1.