In their final group play game of the Emirates NBA Cup, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 101-93. Despite a strong effort from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Thunder's defense proved to be too much for the Lakers to overcome. The game was a back-and-forth affair, but the Thunder were able to pull away in the final quarter to secure the win and advance to the knockout stage.
Oklahoma City Thunder Defeat Los Angeles Lakers in Emirates NBA Cup
In a thrilling final group play game of the Emirates NBA Cup, the Oklahoma City Thunder emerged victorious over the Los Angeles Lakers, claiming a 101-93 win. Despite an impressive performance from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Thunder's defense proved too formidable for the Lakers to overcome.
Game Highlights:
The game started off at a high pace, with both teams trading baskets. The Thunder held a narrow lead at the end of the first quarter, but the Lakers fought back to tie the game at halftime.
In the second half, the Lakers took control and built a 10-point lead. However, the Thunder refused to give up and rallied back in the final quarter.
With under two minutes remaining, the Thunder had the ball down by three points. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drove to the basket and drew a foul. He made both free throws to tie the game.
On the Lakers' next possession, James missed a jumper. The Thunder rebounded the ball and Dennis Schröder made a layup to give the Thunder the lead.
The Lakers had several chances to tie the game in the final seconds, but they could not convert. The Thunder held on to secure the win.
Player Performances:
Significance of the Win:
With the win, the Thunder advanced to the knockout stage of the Emirates NBA Cup. They will face the Utah Jazz in the first round.
The Thunder have been one of the most surprising teams in the NBA this season. They were projected to finish near the bottom of the Western Conference, but they are currently in contention for a playoff spot.
The win over the Lakers is a testament to the growth and potential of the Thunder.
Top 5 FAQs:
Shubman Gill's impressive 112-run knock in his 50th ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad helped India take a commanding lead in their three-match series against England. With this century, Gill broke multiple records including becoming the fastest to reach 2500 ODI runs, beating South African great Hashim Amla's record. He also became the first Indian to score a century in their 50th ODI, making the milestone game extra special for him and his team.
Jasprit Bumrah is undoubtedly one of the best and highest-paid cricketers in India. As part of the BCCI's A+ contract category, he earns a fixed annual salary of Rs 7 crore, along with match fees based on the format. Additionally, he has been retained by Mumbai Indians for a whopping Rs 18 crore, making him their highest-paid player. With his success on and off the field, Bumrah has also invested in luxury properties in Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Adil Rashid once again proved to be a thorn in Virat Kohli's side, getting the star batter out for the 11th time in his career. Rashid's spin magic was on full display as he got the big wicket in the third ODI between England and India. This time, he perfectly executed a flighted delivery that spun away from Kohli, forcing the edge to the keeper. With India preparing for the Champions Trophy, Kohli needs to find his form again to lead his team to glory.
In the third ODI between India and England, Indian captain Rohit Sharma's return to form was short-lived as he was dismissed for only one run off two balls. This came after a spectacular century in the previous match. With England winning the toss once again, they chose to bowl first and Mark Wood quickly took the wicket of Rohit Sharma with a stunning delivery. The Indian team also made some strategic changes in their bowling lineup for this important match.
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) looks ahead to its 18th season in 2025, it is considering incorporating two innovative rules from the SA20 league launched just three years ago. These rules include allowing captains to name two possible playing XI combinations at the toss, and implementing a bonus point system for dominant performances. These changes could make the IPL even more competitive and exciting for fans.
Indian batting star Virat Kohli's much-awaited return to the side in the second ODI against England turned out to be a short-lived one as he was dismissed for just 5 runs. Leg-spinner Adil Rashid was the man to get the better of Kohli, thanks to a successful review by England. Despite Kohli's quick cameo, India were still in a strong position at 194/2 after 26 overs. Follow all the live updates, news, and biddings for IPL Auction 2025 at Sportskeeda.
Manchester City's Jack Grealish could miss the second leg of the Champions League play-off against Real Madrid after a freak injury in the first leg. Premier League legend Alan Shearer suspects that a lengthy VAR delay may have contributed to the forward's injury. Despite an early lead, City ended up losing the game 3-2. News Manchester City's Jack Grealish may miss second leg against Real Madrid due to injury after lengthy VAR delay disrupts game's rhythm and may have impacted player's fitness. Grealish, who had a crucial role in City's first goal, was forced off the field in the 30th minute due to a groin issue. Despite boss Pep Guardiola's praise for Grealish's fighting spirit, he has not been a regular starter this season due to impressive performances from other wingers. In the end, City lost the game 3-2 with the second leg scheduled for February 20.
India's national cricket team lost Rohit Sharma early to Mark Wood, but Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have helped steady the team against England. England won the toss and chose to bowl first, with both teams making changes to their playing XI. India currently holds an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series.
In their highly-anticipated debut together on the Los Angeles Lakers, basketball superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James did not disappoint, with their incredible passing and basketball IQ leading to a dominant win over the Utah Jazz. Center Jaxson Hayes was the biggest beneficiary, scoring 12 points with the help of Doncic and James' assists. Hayes praised the "extraordinarily fun" experience of playing with the two star players and their ability to create open shots for their teammates. Doncic's presence on the Lakers also allows for even more opportunities for Hayes to excel on the court, as he can use his athleticism as a rim-runner while Doncic's drives draw defenders away.
In a major blow to Team India, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been left out of the squad for the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025. The decision was taken after discussions between the board's medical staff, selectors and team management. Harshit Rana has been named as his replacement, ending speculations about the pacer's availability for the tournament. This comes after the selectors didn't want to take any risks with an unfit player, especially considering Bumrah's past injuries and recent inability to start bowling full tilt.