The Oklahoma City Thunder won the first game of the series against the Memphis Grizzles, 93-91, as they escaped Game 1 with a victory. It took an entire team effort as both of these teams slugged it out going back and forth in what ended in a dramatic finish.
Kevin Durant sunk a jumper with just seconds remaining in the game to give the Thunder a 91-90 lead. He finished the game with 35 points and received solid contribution from his new Robin, Kevin Martin. Martin continued making solid contributions off the bench as he dropped 25 points in this meeting adding some much needed power off the bench.
The Thunder caught a break as Quincy Pondexter couldn't knock down the tying free throws after Reggie Jackson fouled him as time was running out in the game.
Fans might be in for a competitive meeting as each team won two quarters. Both teams posted similar numbers. They both shot poorly from three while shooting a little over 40 percent from the floor. The Grizzlies committed 12 turnovers while the Thunder had 10. All of this provided the close result.
The Grizzlies closed the first quarter ahead 16-14, but then both teams went on a scoring binge where defense took litte importance. The Thunder outscored the Grizzlies 33-30 and took a 47-46 lead at the half.
The Grizzlies came firing in the second half, wrapping up the period outscoring the Thunder 27-17. Marc Gasol led the scoring attack with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Zach Randolph finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Their bench was potent as Jerryd Bayless and Pondexter added 23 points, but the fourth quarter was the Thunder's.
The Thunders closed the game outscoring the Grizzlies 29-18 and of course, Durant playing heroics.
Game 2 is yet to be decided.
