Big-Time Growth for the Thunder Last Night

Wow. What appeared to be a very disappointing game turned into a milepost growth moment for our Thunder. Inside of five minutes to play, Durant and Westbrook both take very questionable shots, and the Thunder are down by nine and the clock is melting away. Serge Ibaka makes a big play on the Martin blocked shot, and Durant takes over the game. It was not just the shots, it was that fierce determination in his eyes. The message to the team: we're winning this game, get on board and follow my lead. Harden hits a huge three, Westbrook cedes control to Durant while continuing to play defense and handle the ball, and this series is over.

Durant, Westbrook, Ibaka, Harden and Mainor: all 22 years old or younger. Veteran presence in Perkins, Sefalosha, Collison and Muhammed. This is a well-coached team that has all the tools to go deep into the playoffs. One step at a time--bring on the Grizzlies/Spurs.