Game Day Preview: OKC Thunder play host to Australia’s Melbourne United

Casper Ware vs Russell Westbrook

Melbourne United’s starting point guard Casper Ware is no stranger to the NBA. He played a 9-game stint with the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2013-14 season which included a highlight play on Houston Rockets superstar James Harden.

He was also invited to play in preseason with the Washington Wizards last year but was unsuccessful in making the squad.

To be fair, this isn’t much of a match up since Russ virtually has his way with any opposing guard. However, for Melbourne United, the team will go as Ware goes. The diminutive guard essentially serves as the team’s motor and his scoring prowess from the perimeter sets the tone for easy looks on the inside.

His speed should pose a problem for the OKC defense but the sheer length of the team should be able to neutralize some of his penetration. As for Westbrook, he will continue his high-speed play and attack the paint, putting pressure on the defense. If he choses to, Westbrook could abuse Ware in the post. Luckily, its preseason so Russ is likely to be looking to find the open man and put on a passing exhibition. However, Ware could be finding himself looking at these in the opening quarter.

Up front the two squads may also find an intriguing match up, not to mention a bit of a rivalry given the two player’s home towns.