Oakland, CA – In the end, Dwight Howard had the last laugh.
Warriors first-year head coach Mark Jackson opted to employ a severe case of "Hack a Shaq," sending Shaquille O'Neal's doppelganger to the free throw line an NBA record 39 times.
Howard only made 21 of his attempts, but finished with 45 points and converted a go-ahead three-point play with 65 seconds remaining to help Orlando outlast Golden State, 117-109.
The previous free-throw attempt record was held by the great Wilt Chamberlain, who shot 34 free throws against St. Louis on February 22, 1962.
Hedo Turkoglu chipped in 20 points in Orlando's third straight win.
Monta Ellis led Golden State with 30 points, while David Lee added 26 points and 12 rebounds before fouling out.
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