5 takeaways from OKC Thunder historic 25 point comeback victory

The marvel that is Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook is about as polarizing of an athlete as there is in sports. Being a fan of the Brodie comes with angst-filled moments and conversely ones of elation. For every OKC Thunder fan who texted, tweeted, or direct messaged me last night citing how terrible Russ is another was taking the opposing stance.

Even in our own little TI team, there were opposing positions on Westbrook. It’s more than understandable because knowing the talent which is Westbrook means having to accept the flaws which come with the miraculous. That said, I’m known as the optimist, so of course, I cited Westbrook’s ability to change the course of history. Let me personally say thank you, Russell Westbrook, for giving my belief in you, legs to stand on.

The 20 point third quarter:

Westbrook simply refused to lose. Sure, Paul George and Alex Abrines were factors in this win. But, the reason the Thunder won this game began and ended with the reigning MVP.

When Russ decides he is taking over a game the only one who can beat him is himself. There will be games when that occurs, but on this night Westbrook simply defied the odds.

First of all, he played the entire second half; something he’s only done on one prior occasion. Prior to the 8:34 mark, Westbrook was definitely not shooting well and appeared to be contributing more to the loss.

From this point forward, however, he completely took over. In the third quarter, Westbrook scored 20 points hitting four of his five perimeter shots and was a force no one on the Jazz could stop.  Breaking it down he scored 12 points in the first half, 20 in the third quarter and 13 in the final frame. He added 15 rebounds and 7 assists.

A virtuoso performance and one which will go down in OKC Thunder history! Kudos to Russell Westbrook — it’s nights like this which are why you are many NBA fans, favorite player!

Simply incredible.