Spurs recover to defeat Rockets in Game 3 in Houston, win 125-105.

The Spurs responded strongly to begin Game 3, threes falling, defense on point, especially by Josh Smith (subbing in for Rudy Gay) from disrupting passing lanes. J-Smoove and Iman Shumpert proved to be an insufferable duo tonight, with Shumpert taking MVP honors. He had 11 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 blocks and 3 steals--tormenting Harden all night long. Spur-fection came to life, leading 64-48 at halftime on 62% shooting on the court. Every shot was contested, almost every free throw was made; the Spurs did everything right in this one to earn a victory.

James Harden was even seeing a double-team here and there, turning the ball over and causing 3PT bombs on the other side of the court in the fast break. Tony Parker even blocked Chris Paul. A 12-0 run by the Spurs sealed this victory. Josh Smith had 17 points, 11 rebounds and 2 steals. Kawhi Leonard had a solid 21 points. Pau Gasol had 17 points and 8 rebounds. Mario Hezonja helped out from the bench with 15 points and 2 steals, making up for Rudy Gay's absence in the scoring column.

The Spurs shot 41% from 3PT territory and crushed Houston's bench this time around, winning the scoring battle in all four quarters. Chris Paul had 13 points with 12 assists, but Harden only scored 15 as this series now moves to a 2-1 lead for the Spurs heading into Game 4.