Shortly after a tough series with the Los Angeles Clippers, the Oklahoma City Thunder announced that Serge Ibaka would miss the rest of the playoffs with a left calf injury. This was not good news for Thunder fans. Ibaka was the defensive leader for Oklahoma City as an intimidating presence down low. Ibaka averaged 2.7 blocks a game during the regular season and 2.23 during the playoffs. Ibaka’s absence made Oklahoma City very vulnerable to the slash and kick style of play that Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili bring for the Spurs. Not to mention a guy named Tim Duncan who occupies the lane for San Antonio. The Spurs won both games one and two and looked to be running away with the series.
Then with Sunday morning came whispers of Ibaka becoming eligible to play. He participated in the team shoot around, felt good, and was given the all clear by team Dr. Ronnie Strack. Ibaka wasted no time making his presence known hitting his first four shots and blocking a couple of shots.
With 3:17 left in the 4th quarter and the Thunder sporting a 20 point lead, the Thunder let Ibaka exit the game to a standing ovation from the home crowd. Ibaka played 29 minutes and finished 6/7 from the field with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocked shots. Not bad for a guy that was supposed to be done for the season with an injury. More importantly, the Thunder won the game 106-97 and got back in the series. Can the Thunder repeat history and come back from a 2-0 deficit against the Spurs once again? With Ibaka back they certainly have a chance.
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