FROM THE OTHER SIDE

What writers in San Antonio are saying about the series:

BUCK HARVEY, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

I like Peter Holt over Jerry Buss. Jerry West over Gregg Popovich. Gregg Popovich over Kurt Rambis. I like a trip to L.A. instead of a few days in Harris County. Black and silver over purple and gold. Jack Nicholson over the Coyote (Jack’s role in “As Good as It Gets” gives him a slight edge).

I like Malik Rose over J.R. Reid. Jerome Kersey over J.R. Reid. Airport security over J.R. Reid.

I like Dennis Rodman, at home, wondering just who the heck to root for.

I like Shaquille O’Neal’s power against David Robinson. Shaquille O’Neal’s power against Tim Duncan. Shaquille O’Neal’s power against NATO.

I like Will Perdue’s containment of Shaquille O’Neal--six whistles a night.

I like the 30,000 fans who will fill the Alamodome. The late-arriving Laker fans. The non-arriving Rocket fans.

I like Bob Hill and Del Harris, miked for sound, watching this series together.

I like Tim Duncan to beat down Robert Horry. Tim Duncan to beat down Sean Rooks. Tim Duncan to beat down the media.

I like the Forum over the Alamodome, which says something, since the Lakers are moving out of the Forum next season for even better digs.

I like Kobe Bryant more than his hype. Kobe Bryant more than his ads. Kobe Bryant more in five years.

I like Avery Johnson over a Derek (Fisher).

A Derek (Harper) over Avery Johnson, at the end of one game, with a trey, just when the Lakers need it.

I like Lakers’ quickness and chaos versus the Spurs’ defense and chemistry. I like a series that will be arguably more entertaining than even the finals.

And? I like the Spurs in six.