Bowen had just received the ball when he was stuck to by Zhang Yang. His speed was only enough to get open for the pass against Zhang Yang's defense; there was no chance for an open shot, and even passing out was difficult. He was forced to shoot... "Clang"... no good!
Rondo secured the defensive rebound, and Ginobili immediately rushed over and hugged Rondo, committing a tactical foul! Since they hadn't reached the foul limit yet, Ginobili used the foul to stop Rondo and Zhang Yang from starting a counterattack.
Popovich took the opportunity to call a timeout and make some roster rotations.
After Ginobili's aggressive play, the Spurs were about to enter another low-scoring iron-blood period.
Popovich knew this; it was the same every game, just like the last one.
But Ginobili starting the third quarter with 3 shots and 3 hits, totaling 7 points without gaining an advantage, was very painful for Popovich.