Number 10: Game 1 vs. Dallas Mavericks 2016
When Billy Donovan replaced fired OKC Thunder head coach Scott Brooks in April 2016, Donovan elected to overhaul the majority of the coaching staff. Among the new additions was well-respected NBA figure, Monty Williams.
Williams took a leave of absence due to the tragic death of his wife Ingrid Williams; Ingrid was killed in a two-car automobile accident on February 10, 2016. Monty’s first appearance inside the Peake after Ingrid’s death came in OKC’s first playoff game.
Game Specifics
- When: April 16, 2016
- Where: Chesapeake Energy Arena (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
- Opponent: Dallas Mavericks
- Final score: 108 – 70, Thunder win
Monty’s presence had a strong effect on the atmosphere of the arena. Every Thunder playoff game provides special energy, but this was different. From tip-off, it became clear Oklahoma City was on a mission to win the game for their still grieving assistant coach.
OKC did so while setting a record, which still stands to this day. On that afternoon the OKC Thunder set the franchise record for point differential at plus-38. It was the third largest margin of victory during the entire 2016 postseason.