Basically, when you play the top teams, you need nine players ready to go. We knew that going in, but it was unfortunate that the fouls dictated the game.

Tiger is the key to validating your success. You can get nine of the top 10 players, but if you don't get him ...

Our players knew we wouldn't have a home game, and at this level you have to be ready to travel and win on the road.

a framework that has enabled teams in smaller markets to sign top players.

He basically led this team for the last 10 years when you think about it. We knew why he came back. It was no secret he wanted to finish his career with a championship.

When you put better teams in front of you, that's when the big players rise to that occasion.