NBA: Spurs secure place in the playoffs for a 19th straight season

The San Antonio Spurs clinched their 19th consecutive playoff berth with a 97-81 victory over the Detroit Pistons. Kawhi Leonard scored 27 points and LaMarcus Aldridge added 23 as the Spurs recorded their 29th straight at home win. It moves them to 51 and 9 for the season, second only to the Golden State Warriors, who are the only other team to clinch a postseason spot so far. Elsewhere, the Boston Celtics beat the Portland Trail Blazers 116-93, the Chicago Bulls went down to the Orlando Magic 102-89, and the Toronto Raptors claimed a 104-94 win over the Utah Jazz.