Durant Recovers, Westbrook Solidifies Spot in U.S. Victory

The two Thunder players were key contributors in Team USA's 86-85 victory against Spain.

Thursday, May 26th 2011, 11:54 am

By: News On 6

Durant Recovers, Westbrook Solidifies Spot in U.S. Victory

Originally Published: Aug 22, 2010 5:22 PM CDT

Grant Belcher
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

MADRID – Kevin Durant finally started playing more like himself.

The Oklahoma City forward scored 25 points on 9-of-16 shooting and pulled down 10 rebounds as USA defeated Spain 86-85 in a scrimmage before the World Championship games begin.

Just as importantly, Durant had two key blocks at the end of the game against Spain’s Ricky Rubio and Rudy Fernandez to close out the victory.

Guard Derrick Rose added 13 points for the Americans, and Lamar Odom had 12 points and nine boards.

Thunder guard Russell Westbrook, who is reportedly competing with guards Eric Gordon and Stephen Curry for the final spot on the USA roster, had eight points and five rebounds.

Gordon was held scoreless in the scrimmage, and Curry scored seven points as he is easing back into play after recovering from a sprained ankle last week.

Spain, whose roster houses the most NBA players of any country besides the U.S., is the defending FIBA world champion. It was their first loss in the past nine games.

The 2010 World Championships begin Saturday in Turkey.