Don't Mess with the Rally Rabbi

Last night the Golden State Warriors played the Dallas Mavericks in Oakland at the Oracle Arena. The Mavericks are the best team in the NBA right now, coming into the evening with a 17 game win streak and the top candidate for MVP, Dirk Nowitzki. The Warriors are struggling to make the final playoff spot in the West, praying that Baron Davis' knee will stay strong enough to keep him on the court.

Last night was also Jewish Heritage Night at the Arena. There was a tailgate party before the game hosted by Chabad and T-shirts with גו ווריורס - Go Warriors in Hebrew - printed under the Warrior logo for all who got their tickets through the participating Jewish community groups.

Although Hanukkah is long past, you could say that "A Great Miracle Happened Here." The Warriors smoked the Mavs, ahead by as much as 32 at one point, winning by 17. They were able to neutralize Nowitzki and cause a ton of Dallas turnovers. The crowd was electrified and it was just a great night.

During the first period, the stadium MC stood with Rabbi Yosef Langer, a Chabad rabbi complete with black hat and beard, while he blew the shofar in his role as the official Bay Area "Rally Rabbi." You've got to wonder whether this made the difference. . .