41.   But beyond the All-Stars, the rivalry between the Heat and the Knicks has been about role players.

42.   But Battie was only one of several Boston role players who spent time in the limelight Tuesday night.

43.   But Arizona is not Arizona because it has quick role players up front who play within their limitations.

44.   But he commands respect and inspires loyalty like no other manager in the game and squeezes the most out of role players and superstars alike.

45.   But having himself been an NHL journeyman on defense, Wilson should have been more sensitive in his dealings with the role players.

46.   But losing the steady role players Corliss Williamson and Tony Delk hurt.

47.   But Meyer is a role player, a situation player, and Calipari knows it.

48.   But Parcells acquired Byars to be a role player, not a starter.

49.   But it was the role players, and the way they responded to adversity throughout the Cup, that made France the best team here.

50.   But Riley has gotten plenty of mileage out of role players this season.