Washington Wizards: Thunder Spoil Scott Brooks’ Return to OKC
Washington Wizards sustain heartbreaking to lose to the Oklahoma City Thunder in overtime, 115-126 as Scott Brooks returns to OKC.
Washington Wizards‘ suffered quite possibly their most heart-breaking loss of the season Wednesday night as the Wizards fall to the Thunder in overtime in Scott Brooks‘ return to Oklahoma City.
Brooks, who spent seven seasons as head coach of the Thunder, experienced an abundant amount of success in Oklahoma City. Brooks led the Thunder to six playoff berths including three trips to the Western Conference Finals and an appearance in the 2012 NBA Finals.
Former players who played under Brooks along with the entire city of Oklahoma will always appreciate his efforts and dedication throughout his tenure with the Thunder. Before tip-off, Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook expressed his admiration for Brooks, who helped evolve Westbrook into an NBA superstar.
Scott Brooks has been coaching Russ since his rookie year in 2008-09. Tonight he's a visitor in Westbrook's... https://t.co/BEg4ly3l4Z
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) December 1, 2016
The Thunder jumped out to a 32-19 first quarter lead and had control for most of the game. Following a three-point basket by Victor Oladipo, who finished with 25 points in 45 minutes of play, the Wizards deficit grew to 15 points as the second quarter got underway. With just under eight minutes remaining in the first half, the Thunder held a game-high 16-point lead.
The Wizards were able to close the gap to seven points at halftime and eventually tied the game at 84 entering the fourth quarter. It was all Wizards in the fourth quarter, and it looked like the Wizards were on their way to capturing their first ever win in Oklahoma City.
After expanding their lead to seven points with just over three minutes to play, the Thunder came roaring back to send the game to overtime. Unlike the fourth quarter, it was all Oklahoma City in overtime as they went on to score the first eight points. The Thunder never looked back, and the Wizards sustained their 11th loss of the season.
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Bradley Beal led the Wizards in scoring with 31 points in 41 minutes of play. Thunder’s Westbrook recorded yet again another triple-double as he has jumped out to the early season MVP favorite.