Sixers bid one final farewell to the Spectrum

October 11, 9:58 AMPhiladelphia 76ers ExaminerAndy Jasner

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It might constitute as the longest goodbye of all time.

But for those who ever watched the Sixers -- or any other event for that matter -- at the Spectrum, anyone would understand.

So the Sixers held one last practice at the legendary arena on Saturday just across the street from the Wachovia Center. More than 2,000 fans arrived to watch the free Sixers practice.

One player to keep an eye is second-year forward Marreese Speights from the University of Florida. He showed flashes of brilliance last season.

Thus far in the preseason, Speights has been impressive. Along with a decent touch from 15 feet, he is playing aggressive in the post.

That aggression showed late in Friday's 93-92 win over the New Jersey Nets when he wrestled Brook Lopez to the court while scrambling for a loose ball.

Speights seems to have picked up coach Eddie Jordan's intricate Princeton offense. If Samuel Dalembert struggles at times, it will be very beneficial for Speights.

The regular season hasn't started yet, but this is one player to watch.

And the fans had one last shot to do so at the Spectrum.