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The Atlanta Hawks outscored the Detroit Pistons, 48-34 in the second half, but a poor first half doomed Atlanta in an 85-84 loss at the Palace of Auburn Hills Friday night.
Al Horford hit what appeared to be a game-tying three-pointer with 5.9 seconds left in regulation, but after a review, the officials ruled that Horford had a foot on the three-point line, leaving the Hawks down by one point. After a bizarre in-bounds play that led to a Pistons turnover, Atlanta had a chance to go for the win, but a Lou Williams three-point attempt was off line.
The Hawks (20-11) couldn't buy a bucket in the first half, as Atlanta made 35.9 percent of its shots from the field. The Hawks were 2-of-14 from behind the three-point line and 6-of-11 from the free throw line in the first 24 minutes. For the game, Atlanta shot 41.3 percent and made 10-of-29 threes.
Horford had a big night for the Hawks compiling a double-double with 18 points, 15 rebounds and three assists. Josh Smith contributed 20 points, three rebounds, three assists, two blocks and two steals. Williams finished with 17 points, and Kyle Korver had 10.
Greg Monroe led Detroit (13-22) with 18 points, nine rebounds, three steals and one assist. Austin Daye had 20 points and six rebounds, and Jason Maxiell had a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Next up for Atlanta is a home game against the Boston Celtics. Saturday's tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET.