The Associated Press

STARS

Friday

- Paul Pierce, Celtics, had 45 points and 10 rebounds to lead Boston to a 77-58 win over Denver.

- Joe Johnson, Suns, scored a career-high 27 points and had 10 rebounds to spark Phoenix to a 110-107 victory in Orlando.

- Tim Duncan, Spurs, had 29 points and 17 rebounds, and made a turnaround jump shot over Karl Malone as time expired to give San Antonio a 91-90 win in Utah.

- Dirk Nowitzki, Mavericks, scored 30 points for the second straight night in Dallas' 101-90 victory over New York.

SAYING GOODBYE

When Michael Jordan was introduced Friday night, Chicago fans gave him a thunderous ovation lasting nearly 31/2 minutes. The game, which was likely Jordan's last in Chicago, was won by the Bulls 104-97. It was Jordan's first loss to his old team in the five times he's faced the Bulls with Washington. He finished with 11 points on 4-for-14 shooting from the floor in 39 minutes.

ONE MAN BAND

Paul Pierce had 45 points and almost outscored the entire Denver team in the first half as the Celtics beat the Nuggets 77-58 Friday night. Less than two minutes before halftime, Pierce had 28 points to the Nuggets' 27. Denver had 29 points at the break, one more than Pierce. The Nuggets, the lowest-scoring team in the league, wound up tied for the 11th-lowest point total in NBA history since the 24-second shot clock was implemented in 1954-55.

TECHNICALITIES

Eight technical fouls were called against the SuperSonics and Pacers on Friday night in Indiana's 93-80 win. Seattle had five, including two each in the fourth quarter against Gary Payton and coach Nate McMillan, who were ejected in the closing minutes.

STRETCHING A DOUBLE

Kevin Garnett had 12 points and 14 rebounds for the Timberwolves in an 88-85 win over the Clippers on Friday. It was his league-leading 34th double-double. He also finished one assist short of a triple-double.

STREAKING

Tim Duncan made a turnaround jump shot as time expired, giving the Spurs their 11th straight win over the Jazz, 91-90 on Friday night. ... With a 93-80 victory over Seattle, Indiana extended its home winning streak to 13 games. ... The Pistons beat the Rockets 98-74, marking the 15th straight time Detroit has held an opponent under 100 points.

SPEAKING

"It's truly been a pleasure. You guys have given me great pleasure to play in the city of Chicago. I love you all. You're still supporting the Chicago Bulls. Thank you for supporting them over the years. Thank you all. I love you very much." - Michael Jordan addressing fans before what probably was his last game in Chicago.