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Sixers Continue Preparation and Stay Focused for Playoffs

Coming off their impressive and dramatic 100-98 win last night over the Orlando Magic in Game 1 of the NBA Playoffs, the Philadelphia 76ers returned to the practice court this afternoon at the Orlando Sports Center.

And already the team is back to business, immediately going into film session following their media availability prior to practice. And yet despite seizing home court advantage from the Magic, Sixers guard Andre Miller says that team remains focused on the task at hand, regardless of the perception.

“We don't expect people to give us respect because it’s never been given anyway,” Miller said. “ We just go out to play basketball, and just do the best that we can.

“It’s almost good that we don’t have guys who are in the [national] eye. We just have a group of guys that play well with each other and we don’t need that extra stuff off the court.”

Among those that played well off the bench – which spurred the Sixers by going 7-9 from three-point range – was Theo Ratliff, Donyell Marshall and guard Lou Williams, who in particular said one of the differences between this year’s playoffs and last is that this time around when his number was called, he was more than ready.

“I was more excited than anything, just ready to play,” Williams said. “I didn’t have to waste four or five minutes getting the jitters out.”

The team will continue preparation for game two of the NBA Playoffs with a practice tomorrow morning at 10:30am. The Sixers today covered several defensive strategies at length and then went through some offensive sets. They finished with free throws and shooting.

NATIONAL : The Sixers graced the home page of ESPN.com for most of the day, with Iguodala calling into ESPN’s “First Take” this morning and Miller calling into ESPNews after practice.

TIGER CALL : Prior to tip, Willie Green went over to greet his favorite glofer, Tiger Woods, who was sitting courtside across from the Sixers bench. At halftime, Assistant Coach Aaron McKie also took a moment to shake Woods’ hand.