Sacramento 104, Boston 101

Revrag

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Paul Pierce hit a 3-pointer in Ron Artest's face and then talked about it all the way upcourt. Artest replied with a driving layup, which provided another topic of conversation. The two frustrated stars led their losing clubs by example -- and in the final minutes, Artest and his Kings did just enough to hand Pierce's Celtics yet another defeat.

Kevin Martin scored 22 points and Artest added 18 and a key blocked shot as Sacramento sent the Celtics to their 19th loss in 20 games, 104-101 Tuesday night.

The Kings managed just one field goal and five points in the final 9:37, but still survived Boston's late rally. Brad Miller scored the game's last points on two free throws with 1:37 to play, and Artest swatted Al Jefferson's shot under the basket to thwart one of Boston's several attempts to get closer.

Artest and Pierce are passing acquaintances, like most NBA stars, but they clearly relished their marquee matchup. Perhaps it was a welcome diversion from the day-to-day grind with two teams struggling to maintain respectability.

"We're not really buddies off the court," Artest said. "We talk a little trash to each other, but Paul has a big heart. We have a good time out there."

Miller had 12 points, eight rebounds and six assists for the Kings in his first game back from a four-game absence with a foot injury. Mike Bibby, frequently mentioned in trade rumors, scored 10 points -- none after the first quarter.

"We just wanted to avoid the sluggishness after the break, and we finished it off," Martin said. "It happens to everybody in this situation."

 
 
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