The Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a halftime deficit to defeat the Dallas Mavericks 95-91 Monday night. The Thunder held the Mavericks to just 13 points in the third quarter and played some great defense down the stretch to hold on for the victory.
Serge Ibaka put the Thunder on top 92-91 with 46 seconds remaining in the game. On Dallas' next possession, Kendrick Perkins switched out on Jason Terry and forced him into a tough fall away shot that came up way short resulting in a shot clock violation. Kevin Durant extended the lead to 93-91 with a free throw before Terry missed a game-tying attempt. Russell Westbrook closed the game out on the free throw line to seal the victory.
Westbrook led the way for the Thunder with 24 points, six rebounds and three assists. Kevin Durant had a cold shooting night but still finished with 22 points. James Harden chipped in 16 points off the bench. Kendrick Perkins grabbed a game-high 14 rebounds while Serge Ibaka finished with six blocked shots.
Dirk Nowitzki scored a game-high 27 points but didn't touch the ball on the Mavericks down two on the final play. Jason Terry added 18 points while Ian Mahinmi added 13.
For more on this game Thunder fans should check out Welcome To Loud City and Mavericks fans should stop by Mavs Moneyball. For more news and analysis from around the NBA head on over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.