Sixers Slip Past Raptors

Boosted by the return of Theo Ratliff, the Philadelphia 76ers got their first road win of the season.

Ratliff, who missed the first six games with a stress fracture in his left ankle, had 17 points and 11 rebounds as the 76ers ended Toronto's four-game winning streak, 93-90 Sunday.

"Theo gave us confidence, especially on the road," said Allen Iverson, who had 30 points, seven rebounds and six assists for Philadelphia. "We came in here knowing he would be back, and that gave us a lift."

"He was sensational for his first game back," coach Larry Brown said. "He was a presence the whole game."

The 76ers led by 19 points in the third quarter before the Raptors rallied with a 10-0 run.

Iverson scored eight straight points, including a four-point play, to help Philadelphia take a 90-79 lead in the fourth quarter. But Muggsy Bogues made a layup and Dell Curry hit two 3-pointers to bring the Raptors within three points.

Toronto's Vince Carter was fouled and made the second of two free throws to cut the margin to two, but Philadelphia's George Lynch made one of two from the line with 12 seconds remaining to give the 76ers a 93-90 lead.

Ratliff blocked Carter's 3-point attempt in the closing seconds and Alvin Williams missed a desperation 3-pointer at the buzzer.

"I felt great," Ratliff said. "I wanted to get to a point where I was healthy enough to make a contribution."

Carter led the Raptors with 27 points, 11 rebounds and fivassists. He also brought the crowd to its feet with a dunk over Ratliff in the first quarter. But after the game Carter admitted Ratliff was the difference.

"Iverson was his usual self but Ratliff gave them a big lift," Carter said. "He gave them an inside presence."

The 76ers shot 55 percent in the first half to take a 55-45 lead.

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