Reggie Jackson leads Thunder past Sixers 103-99

In an NBA Global Game in Manchester, England the Oklahoma City Thunder took on the Philadelphia 76ers. From the start both teams stayed close with the Thunder getting an eleven point lead. The Sixers would comeback into the game, but could never get over the hump to get the win.

This game was all about the dominance of Kevin Durant. His passing was on full display as he racked up 12 assists. In a season in which the Thunder will be without Russell Westbrook for a weeks, Durant could provide more for the team in Westbrook’s absence. This was only a preseason game and it came against a very young Sixers team, but Durant is capable of dominating games. Today he did that and really was a difference maker. Durant scored 21 points and also grabbed eight rebounds.

Reggie Jackson also was effective to say the least. Jackson scored a game high 29 points. Jackson really had a great game as he shot 59% from the field. He really looked great in every aspect of the game and looked solid running the offense as he dished out 8 assists. With Jackson being the starting point guard for the Thunder to start the season. This performance today really shows that he can be a solid option for the Thunder until Westbrook returns. And if he can continue to play at this level, the Thunder could work Westbrook back slowly—if they aren’t already.

For the Sixers Tony Wroten put forth a solid effort. He attacked the basket, getting hit hard most times, but that didn’t effect him. Wroten also made four three pointers today and that was huge in terms of keeping the Sixers in the game. He went on to score 20 points off the bench to help his team.

Evan Turner added 19 points and six rebounds in 35 minutes for the Sixers. Turner did miss some free throws late in the game, but overall he had a solid game.

Defensively the game the Thunder played was exceptional. Collectively they amassed 11 blocks and 10 steals. They did turn the ball over 19 times, but they were able to force turnovers as well. Both teams were real sloppy at times, but this is preseason and that is to be expected.

With the final score of 103-99 the Thunder improved to 2-0 in the preseason while the Sixers fell to 1-1.