By the Associated Press
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma City Thunder spoiled Russell Westbrook’s return.
Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook (0) drives against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Westbrook scored 34 points, but the Thunder beat the Houston Rockets 113-92 on Thursday night.
Westbrook was a league MVP and two-time scoring champ for the Thunder before being traded to the Rockets last summer for Chris Paul and draft picks. Westbrook was the last remaining player from the team that began playing in Oklahoma City in 2008 after leaving Seattle.
Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook shouts to the crowd before the team’s NBA basketball game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
The fans remember Westbrook as the star who stayed after Kevin Durant left for then-rival Golden State in 2016, and they showered him with appreciation before the game.
There was a tribute video, then loud cheers as he was introduced with enthusiasm, in the same manner as a home Thunder player.
The crowd stood, cheered loudly and even chanted M-V-P as the announcer moved on to other players.
Westbrook even ran over to a corner of the court and exhorted the crowd before the tip, just like he did when he played for the Thunder.
Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook, center, laughs with former teammates, Oklahoma City Thunder guards Dennis Schroeder, left, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, right, following an NBA basketball game Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Westbrook scored 18 points in the first half, but the Thunder led 60-48 at the break after shooting 53.8% from the field. The Thunder extended their lead throughout the second half. Westbrook was subbed out with 7:18 remaining.
Danilo Gallinari led the Thunder with 23 points and 11 rebounds and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 20 points.
Houston’s James Harden, who entered the night averaging a league-best 38.5 points per game, was held to 17 on 5-for-17 shooting.
Source: Manila Bulletin
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