So this is why Gary Payton is still a Sonic. For 36 minutes, the veteran guard deferred to younger teammates, scoring just 12 points. But the fourth quarter remains exclusively Payton's place. As the San Antonio Spurs mounted a comeback, Payton took over the game, scoring 13 in the fourth quarter, including back to back fadeaway jumpers in the final minutes, to ensure a 114-108 Sonic victory.

That's not to downplay the considerable accomplishments of Payton's Sonic teammates during their home opener. Three Seattle players scored at least 20 points, with Payton's backcourtmate Brent Barry displaying remarkable efficency while scoring 24 points on just 7 shot attempts (6 of them made). He also added 7 boards and 6 assists. Rashard Lewis drilled 4 free throw pointers en reute to 22 points and 7 boards on the evening.

For the second consecutive game, the Sonics started slowly, trailing for the entire first quarter. They took the lead in the second quarter, extending it as far as seven and four at the half. In the second half, the Sonics never trailed, answering each charge from San Antonio with one of their own. On the other hand, they never took a commanding lead, upping it only to 12.

San Antonio was led by the 22 points and 14 rebounds of Tim Duncan, though the Spur big man struggled at times against Sonic defense, making just 6 of 18 shots. Most of his scoring came on 10 of 14 shooting from the free throw line. Antonio Daniels kept the Spurs close as they struggled offensively in the third quarter, making three jumpers as the Sonics briefly went to a 2-3 zone. He finished with 21 points, though just three assists. David Robinson, who sat out the entire fourth quarter as both teams went small, finished with 17 points on 5 of 8 shooting along with 8 boards. Malik Rose added 14 off the bench, and Steve Smith finished wiwth 11.

Both benches were productive. The Sonics received 20 points from subs in the first half, and an unconventional lineup of Payton, Barry, Desmond Mason, Lewis, and Art Long went small to gain an advantage. Mason scored 15 points on 6 of 7 shooting. Just a 27% three point shooter a year ago, Mason made a pair of three-balls in the final quarter. Rookie Vladimir Radmanovic provided an offensive threat, scoring 9 points. Vin Baker also scored 9 and added 8 boards, as the team looked elsewhere for offense because of the defensive prowess of Robinson and Duncan.

Opening night was marked by the taped video address from President Bush and ceremonial tip-off that all NBA openers have had. In addition, the Sonics' new ownership regime under primary owner Howard Schultz made several changes. Ex-Sonic players in attendence were introduced prior to the game, with Slick Watts and Johnny Johnson playing a game of 'two-ball' with a pair of youngsters at halftime. Mariner players Mike Cameron and Jeff Nelson were also introduced to the crowd during the game. Fans received free Sonics' shirts as they entered KeyArena.

SC.com Player of the Game: Tough call tonight, but after long thought we have to give this one to the Glove.