Thunder Can't Hold off Cleveland Cavaliers

Originally Published: Dec 13, 2009 8:30 PM CDT

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Gerald Goodridge
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- It took a nearly Herculean effort from the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second half, but they were able to overcome sloppy first-half play to spoil Oklahoma City’s upset bid 102-89.

The Thunder opened up the game strong, leading at halftime 54-49, spurred by stars Kevin Durant and Jeff Green, who scored 17 and 15 points in the first half, respectively.

Cleveland had to scrap at the end of the second quarter to cut Oklahoma City’s lead, led by superstar LeBron James, who scored 10 of the Cavaliers last 12 points of the half.

A quick five points from James helped the Cavs go up one point three minutes into the third quarter, causing Thunder coach Scott Brooks to burn an early time out.

The Thunder played aggressive the second half, led by Green who attacked the interior of the Cleveland defense on his way to a career-high 26 points, including 11 in the second half.

Cavalier guard Mo Williams was the difference maker in the second half, and the fourth quarter specifically, hitting three three-point shots in the fourth quarter, including one from beyond half court to put the game nearly out of reach.

Oklahoma City was outscored in the fourth quarter 24-13, and Durant was held scoreless in the fourth quarter.

James scored a season-high 44 points in the win, and combined with Williams 22 points accounted for two-thirds of the offensive production for Cleveland, on their way to snapping a three-game losing streak.

The Thunder fall to 12-10 on the season and have no time to rest, they take on the Denver Nuggets in Denver, Colo. Dec. 14.