Scorned by Paul Pierce's game-winning buzzer beater in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Saturday, the Atlanta Hawks have started a "petition" to ban backboard usage on game-winning shot attempts.

Scorned by Paul Pierce's game-winning buzzer beater in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Saturday, the Atlanta Hawks have started a "petition" to ban backboard usage on game-winning shot attempts.

Just before time expired in Saturday's game at the Verizon Center, Pierce launched a step-back jumper that hit the backboard before falling through to give the Washington Wizards a 103–101 win. The win gave the Wizards a 2–1 series lead; Game 4 will be played Monday in Washington.

Pierce's clutch banker was also the second in as many days for the NBA, as Derrick Rose did the same on Friday to give the Chicago Bulls a 99–96 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the East's other semifinals series.

• Paul Pierce buzzer beater hides the real truth: Wizards need John Wall

Update: The Wizards have responded.

- Mike Fiammetta