Unpredictable Ginobili provides spark for Spurs

SAN ANTONIO -- The fastball-like pass that set up a series-winning shot with 0.5 seconds left was gutsy. The 52-foot bank shot in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals was impressive. The behind-the-back reverse layup in the closing minutes of Game 2 was mind-boggling.

Those great plays, all made within the last week, definitely belong on Manu Ginobili's personal highlight film.

But teammate Tony Parker has seen one that tops 'em all.

"When he kicked it with his foot from halfcourt," Parker said, smiling, "that was better."

That didn't happen in a game, of course. At least, not yet. The way things have been going for Ginobili and the San Antonio Spurs lately, anything seems possible.

San Antonio beat the Phoenix Suns in the first two games of the conference finals on the strength of two incredible fourth-quarter rallies, with their Argentina import in the thick of the action both times. The series shifts to San Antonio for games Saturday night and Monday night.

Injured Phoenix guard Joe Johnson practiced Thursday and said he doesn't "think there's anything that could keep me off the court" in Game 3, although stopped short of saying he's definitely playing.

Ginobili is averaging 21.8 points 5.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists this postseason, despite coming off the bench for eight games. He became a super sub after the Spurs lost their playoff opener, then returned to the lineup and scored 39 points four games ago. San Antonio is 4-0 since the change.