The Grizzlies' fast break instantly put the Hawks down by nine. One more point, and the gap would reach double digits.
The first quarter was not even over yet. The Hawks still had plenty of time, and even if they did fall behind by double digits, there was no need to worry too much.
But Budenholzer was extremely tense now, because in that last possession, the Hawks had failed to gain the advantage they had expected.
In the blink of an eye, the Grizzlies had successfully executed both an offensive and defensive possession. The Hawks players were a little dazed, looking helplessly toward their head coach.
Budenholzer gave a slight nod, signaling for everyone to stick to the original plan.
At the same time, Budenholzer walked over to the Macedonian center, Pero Antic. "Get ready to check in!"
Antic nodded, rose to his feet, and headed toward the scorer's table.
Pero Antic stood 2.11 meters tall and weighed 118 kilograms. Bald, bearded, and covered in sleeve tattoos, he looked exceptionally fierce.
Compared to Horford, he looked far more like a powerful big man.
Since Horford could not gain a height advantage over Link, then Antic would take the floor!
But substitutions had to wait until the next dead ball. For now, the Hawks had to find a solution with their current lineup.
This time, Horford did not continue posting up to go one-on-one with Link. He was not the kind of person to act on impulse. He would not let stubbornness lead him into failure after failure.
This time, Horford chose to set screens for his teammates.
The Grizzlies were thin in the frontcourt. There was no need to force the center into a one-on-one post-up; the perimeter players could also attack the basket.
Furthermore, Horford's range extended beyond the