Billups officially made a three-pointer with 0.5 seconds left in the third. The possession started with 5.1 seconds as Billups dribbled in the backcourt and it appeared to take 5.2 seconds according to replays the officials weren't allowed to use during a delay lasting several minutes.

The shot put Detroit ahead 78-76.

Officials refused to comment on the play.

Before the game, Billups was presented with the Walter J. Kennedy sportsmanship award, which is voted on by the Professional BasketballWriters Association, and given to a player or coach who shows "outstanding service and dedication to the community."

Jameer Nelson and Dwight Howard scored 22 points each for Orlando.

In another game:

* At New Orleans, Chris Paul had 30 points and 12 assists as the Hornets took a 2-0 lead in their series with a 102-84 win over San Antonio.

Noteworthy

General manager Steve Kerr said, however, that he hopes to persuade the caoch to stay with the Suns.