Oberto, who returned after missing the previous two games with a tender left hamstring, had a busy evening leading up to the game, trying to catch up with former teammates and get his pregame work in.

The Spurs traded the 34-year-old Oberto to Milwaukee last summer as part of the deal that brought Richard Jefferson. Shortly thereafter, the Bucks shipped him to Detroit, who waived him. Then the Wizards signed Oberto to provide an veteran big man with championship experience.

Oberto remains fond of the Spurs, whom he helped win the NBA Finals in 2007 but still looked forward to playing against them.

"It's weird because I know all the players and we have relations. That's the only thing," the Argentine said. "But after we start the game I'll be cheering and playing as hard as I can for my team. Then after the game we'll be talking some more and catching up on old times. Good memories for me. I had four great years for the team."

Saunders brought Oberto off the bench and matched him up with former teammate Tim Duncan because of the familiarity Oberto has with Duncan. And Oberto was up for the challenge.

"When I played here [in practice] I played against him," said Oberto, who after coming to the District elected to wear No. 21 in honor of Duncan.

QUOTABLE

"He's one of my favorite players... and I think he's one of the best players at his position, ever."

- Wizards center-forward Fabricio Oberto on former Spurs teammate Tim Duncan

BY THE NUMBERS

6 Games Wizards guard Nick Young has been banished to the bench, a year after being the only player on the team to appear in all 82.