Business as usual at Berto Center

The scene Thursday at the Berto Center wasn't far from the ordinary.

Based on the last three games – two 30-point losses and a home defeat to the lowly Nets – everyone has started to wonder if coach Vinny Del Negro’s job status is on thin ice. But he didn’t sound Thursday like someone who believes the end is near.

“We had our struggles last year and things ended up pretty well,” Del Negro said before the usual collection of media. “Hopefully we can handle this adversity, show some character and not compromise into the pressure of it and get better.”

Del Negro’s basic message, repeated several times, was all they can control is their effort in practice and their preparation for Friday’s home game against Golden State, which hopefully will pay off.

Kirk Hinrich participated in the full practice, so he figures to keep playing. Hinrich returned for Wednesday’s dismal 118-83 loss at Atlanta after missing six games with a sprained left thumb. He went 0 for 9 from the field and didn’t score.

Del Negro mentioned that Tyrus Thomas (broken left arm) may still be 2-3 weeks from returning to game action.