NBA: Thunder beat 76ers in Manchester
The Oklahoma Thunder took on the Philadelphia 76ers in Manchester tonight in a game which saw the Thunder come out on top.
Oklahoma beat the 76ers 103-99 in a match that seen both teams fight it out to the end.
Sixers centre, Sencer Hawes put the first points on the board after a rally between both teams which saw them run the length of the court and back again, with several near misses from Reggie Jackson and Andre Robertson.
After Hawes two points came a trade of baskets with 76ers rookie, Michael Carter-Williams proving strong with two three point baskets in the first quarter.
The 76ers took advantage of an unusually sluggish Thunder team, still missing star point guard Russell Westbrook, to lead 51-48 at the half.
Oklahoma’s star man Kevin Durant was not his usual high-scoring self in the first two quarters, seeminly taking a step back and allowing the younger players to make their mark.
For Philadelphia – who were widely tipped to struggle this season after their less than desirable 2012/13 season – Evan Turner had an impressive first half scoring 12 points, adding five rebounds and four assists.
After the break Durant came into his own, adding a further 14 points in the third quarter as his team built a large lead.
With Durant sitting out of the game for much of the final quarter Philadelphia were able to mount something of a comeback but the Thunder were able to hold on.
Durant was the star man, finishing with 21 points, 12 assists and eight rebounds.
More to follow…
