Of all the quotes from the Oklahoma City Thunder following Miami's series-clinching win on Thursday night, perhaps James Hardens' short and simple response can give Thunder fans the most comfort: (quotes courtesy of the official Thunder web site)
"We fought our hearts out."
The young core of the OKC franchise echoed that sentiment after the game, staying humble and all things considered, largely positive.
Scott Brooks:
"A lot of things on both ends of the floor didn’t go our way. But you have to give Miami a lot of credit. They were so aggressive defensively, they were challenging every dribble, they were challenging every shot."
Derek Fisher
"Until that clock is showing zeroes, you can’t give up and quit during the game," Fisher said. "We just kept fighting until the end. Obviously the score differential was big down the stretch, but until you walk into the locker room and realize your season is over, you don’t accept it."
Russel Westbrook:
"I’m very proud. I personally want to thank them for believing in me, the whole coaching staff, organization, fans… The group of guys that we have always sticks together regardless of what happens, win or lose. We all stick together and we want to come back and be better and that’s one thing I love about this team."
Kevin Durant:
"We’re all brothers on this team and it just hurts to go out like this. We made it to the Finals, which was cool for us, but we didn’t want to just make it there. Unfortunately we lost, so it’s tough… I wouldn’t want to play with anybody else. I wouldn’t want to play for any other city. I’m just blessed to be a part of this organization, and hopefully we can get back."
For more on the 2012 NBA Finals, check out SB Nation's NBA page. For Thunder news, go toWelcome To Loud City, and for Miami Heat coverage, check out Peninsula Is Mightier.
