Not even Tony Parker could help the San Antonio Spurs stop the Miami Heat tying up the NBA Finals at 2-2 following a comfortable win in Texas.
Parker was back and showed no signs of the hamstring strain which had put his participation in Game Four in doubt until the morning of the encounter.
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The All-Star point guard started Game Four in good form but failed to score in the second half from just four shots, finishing with 15 points and nine assists. But as Parker faded so did the Spurs as a resurgent Miami tied the series at 2-2 with a 109-93 victory.
In contrast to Parker, LeBron James scored 33 points as he led the Heat to victory, showing the sort of leadership qualities which have earned his four Most Valuable Player awards.
James also had 11 rebounds and four assists, Dwyane Wade scored 32 points and Chris Bosh had 20 points and 13 rebounds as the defending champions made sure the best-of-seven series would head back to their home court. Wade also had six rebounds, six steals and four assists to bring his side back into a series which will reach Game Five in San Antonio.
Turnovers played a huge role as Miami's aggressive defence forced 19 from San Antonio.u00a0A less than fully fit Parker did not help matters for San Antonio either.
Parker now plans to spend the next two days trying to get back to 100 per cent before a pivotal Game Five against a Miami team whose confidence is restored after their backs were put up against the wall.