The Spurs returned home Saturday afternoon to the heat and the humidity and 3,000 fans lining the street. It was a hero's welcome much like the one they received four years ago.

Then, the Spurs also flew back from New York to find a crowd of thousands toasting their success. Then, they walked off their plane cradling the championship trophy.

On Saturday, they returned with only their luggage.

The Spurs arrived back home Saturday not to party ? not yet, at least ? but to go back to work. If they are going to win their second championship, they will do it on their own floor, in front of their own fans. They need to beat New Jersey once more at the SBC Center, either tonight or, if necessary, Wednesday, before the real celebration can begin.