Thunder win first Summer League game in nail-biter
By Bo Cardona
The first Summer League game for the OKC Thunder didn’t go as planned, but a win none-the-less.
We are all left with many questions after the Thunder vs. Pistons Summer League game. One of those questions: do the referees in Orlando even know basic rules?
On an extremely controversial call, the officials called a technical foul that brought a Thunder player to the line. Though this call alone was extremely debatable, the ref told the OKC player he had two shots. This led to Brian Davis stating he shouldn’t know more about the rules than the officials.
Another question the game leaves us with is why didn’t we see Ferguson play? The answer is that he hasn’t officially signed his contract so he can’t play in summer league until he does.
Game Reacp
None the less, it was a great game that showed some real grit from young players trying to make a mark. As I decided that being down 9 points with only two and a half minutes left wasn’t worth prolonging my dinner, the impossible started. The game seemed done for when 2016 second round pick Daniel Hamilton grabbed a rebound, ran down the floor, drew a foul and drains a mid range shot to bring the OKC Thunder to the high side at 84-83.
The Pistons than went on a 8 point run, hosted by the former Blue Devil Luke Kenard. With the teams now gathering their things and getting ready to head out of the gym, Semaj Christan dished a beautiful pass for a 3 pointer by Markelle Brown, making the game 87-91 in Detroit’s favor.
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This is when it gets tricky. This is where one of the most controversial calls of the summer (only beaten by Pacers GM Kevin Pritchard ) is called, giving the Thunder 2 points (should have been one) and the ball back. Josh Huestis shoots after coming off a screen, only to miss the go ahead bucket. But, Daniel Hamilton decides to be Russell Westbrook for 5 seconds, and gets the monstrous tip-in and a foul. Putting the Thunder up 92-91 with 2 seconds left.
Vince Hunter stated that the Thunder, “dug down deep on the defensive end and came out with the win.” Head coach Mark Daigneault also had words on the teams grit stating, “Our team showed resilience and toughness.
Scoring leaders
V. Shamar Hunter
C – OKC
H. Ellenson
F – DET