Another triple double from Russell Westbrook was not enough to secure victory for the Oklahoma City Thunder as the San Antonio Spurs rallied back from 21 points down to win 100-95 at Chesapeake Arena on Saturday (NZT).
Westbrook finished with a game-high 32 points, 15 rebounds and 12 assists to secure his 39th triple double.
The 28-year old needs two more in seven games to tie the record with Oscar Robertson for the most triple-doubles in a season, a milestone which was set in the 1961-1962 season.
Kiwi centre Steven Adams finished the match with 13 points and seven rebounds.
MVP candidate Kawhi Leonard scored 28 points for the Spurs, while Pau Gasol added 17 off the bench.
The Thunder dominated in front of their home crowd for most of the game, leading 25-16 at the end of the first quarter and 54-41 at halftime. The Spurs fight back started in the second half, as they chipped into the lead and trailed 76-71 at the end of the third.
The visitors took their first lead of in the final minutes of the game. Westbrook had a chance to tie it up late, but his shot was blocked by Lamarcus Aldridge with seconds remaining.
Despite the loss, the Thunder have still secured a playoffs spot and currently sit sixth in the Western Conference with a 43-32 record.
The Thunder’s next match is against the Charlotte Hornets on Monday (NZT).
Newshub.