What a first half. This game and this series have a long way to go before it reaches a conclusion, but you couldn't have asked for much more than a 20-point spread (59-39) after only 24 minutes of action.

The Hawks are playing outstanding basketball - forcing turnovers, making free throws, and spreading the ball around to keep the Heat from keying in solely on Joe Johnson. 4 players are in double figures, with Josh Smith leading the way with a game-high 17. Dwyane Wade has 17 as well for Miami, but no one else seems capable of providing him with much help.

Let's see, what else. Hawks owning the defensive glass, as Miami got only 1 offensive rebound in the first half (and promptly turned it over), and outrebounding the Heat overall 22-17. Oh, and this - the Hawks are making Philips Arena live up to its nickname "The Highlight Factory", as we've seen several jaw-dropping dunks from Smoove and Marvin. Needless to say, the crowd is loving it.

This game is far from over - I literally don't believe the Heat are capable of playing this bad for another two quarters - so it's important the team doesn't rest on its laurels and keeps the intensity up on offense and defense. But wow - this is as big a whuppin' as I've seen ATL put on anyone this season.