Sans Kawhi Leonard, Spurs overcome Rockets in overtime

The San Antonio Spurs thrilled fans in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals, which was highlighted by Manu Ginobili's epic block on James Harden that secured a win in overtime. The Silver & Black won 110-107 to claim a 3-2 series lead against the Houston Rockets at the AT&T Center on Tuesday, May 9, 2017. less The San Antonio Spurs thrilled fans in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals, which was highlighted by Manu Ginobili's epic block on James Harden that secured a win in overtime. The Silver & Black won ... more Photo: Jason Gaines, For MySA.com Photo: Jason Gaines, For MySA.com Image 1 of / 176 Caption Close Sans Kawhi Leonard, Spurs overcome Rockets in overtime 1 / 176 Back to Gallery

It wasn't an elimination game for either team, but Manu Ginobili knew it must be treated as such anyway.

"Game 5 is a Game 7," the eldest Spur said. "We've really got to be knowing that every possession is a game-winning possession."

As if that wasn't enough pressure, the Spurs had to manufacture a way to win in overtime without Kawhi Leonard, who spent this series' most pivotal period on the bench with an ankle injury.

But even with Tony Parker lost and Leonard hobbled, the Spurs pulled it off, defeating Houston 110-107 to claim a 3-2 series lead.

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In a frenzied, defense-optional first quarter, the teams traded 3-pointers and layups and dunks. The pace favored Houston, but it was the Spurs who led by three after one.

James Harden was masterful early, scoring or assisting on 21 of Houston's first 27 points. He continually pulled the Spurs' bigs into mismatches by making them switch on high pick-and-rolls, which saved him the hassle of dealing with Kawhi Leonard.

Patrick Beverley was equally important, dropping in 20 points while playing his typical brand of dogged defense.

Ryan Anderson chipped in 19 points off the bench.

But Harden faltered late, gassed after all the energy he expended earlier. Harden finished with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, but went scoreless in overtime while committed three of his game-high nine turnovers.

After falling behind 72-63 midway through the third quarter, the Spurs outscored the Rockets 23-13 over the final seven minutes of the period to claim a one-point lead heading into the final frame.

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It was in the midst of this run that Leonard injured his left ankle after inadvertently stepping on Harden's foot. He walked gingerly to the bench during a timeout, but remained in the game.

At least outwardly, Leonard appeared fine, scoring eight points and grabbing five rebounds during that revitalizing run. But as the game progressed, it became clear the pain lingered.

He again took a seat for two full minutes late in the fourth quarter, then sat out critical possessions in the final minute of regulation.

Leonard spent the entire overtime period on the bench, towel draped around his shoulders. Despite the early exit, he finished with a team-high 22 points and 15 rebounds.

In his place, a trio of wings stepped up: Ginobili, Danny Green and Jonathon Simmons.

Ginobili turned back time earlier with a twisting, right-handed jam and scooped in a game-tying layup with 34.5 seconds left in regulation.

He assisted on both of Green's baskets in the game's closing minute and capped the contest by blocking Harden's 3-point attempt.

MORE: Manu Ginobili turned back time with a huge jam

Ginobili finished with 12 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Green went for 16 points, five rebounds and three assits.

Simmons spent the extra period harassing Harden, drawing a charge and creating another turnover. He had been terrific in regulation, but took it to another level.

The second-year wing scored 12 points and recorded three steals.

Patty Mills was equally brilliant, scoring 20 points in his first start of the postseason.

Now the Spurs travel to Houston for Game 6.

But for the Rockets, Thursday's contest will be a Game 7.

nmoyle@express-news.net

Twitter: @NRMoyle