UPDATE: In a stunning double-overtime thriller, Kevin Durant took full responsibility for the Houston Rockets’ crushing 125-124 defeat against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 24, 2023. The game, held at Paycom Center, showcased Durant’s return to the court, but he left feeling disappointed after key mistakes in a tightly contested matchup.
Durant, who scored 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting, expressed his frustration postgame, stating, “I missed the free throws, and I fouled somebody at the end. I think those two plays are the reason we lost.” His admission highlights the emotional weight of the loss, especially on the night the Thunder celebrated their championship with a ring ceremony.
With the Rockets leading 124-123 and just 11 seconds remaining in the second overtime, a crucial foul by Durant on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sent the reigning MVP to the free-throw line, where he secured the winning points. “I’ve got to stay down, be more disciplined [with] those opportunities to get a stop to seal the game,” Durant lamented.
The game turned into a nail-biter after Durant missed a pivotal free throw with 9.5 seconds left in regulation, which could have clinched the game for Houston. Gilgeous-Alexander then tied the game with a jumper, forcing overtime and leaving the Rockets to wonder what could have been.
“I think definitely he called timeout about three times — verbally and physically with his hands,” Gilgeous-Alexander said of Durant’s timeout signal, which went unnoticed by officials. “You make mistakes in life, and you move on.”
Despite the loss, the Rockets showcased flashes of brilliance, particularly from Alperen Sengun, who scored a game-high 39 points and hit five three-pointers. “He’s making our jobs easy,” Durant praised Sengun’s performance, indicating the synergy they could develop as the season progresses.
The Rockets debuted a historically tall starting lineup averaging 82.2 inches, the tallest since records began in the 1970-71 season. Durant took on a new role, starting at guard for the first time since 2009, alongside rookie Amen Thompson, who faced cramping issues late in the game.
Looking ahead, the Rockets will need to iron out these close-game situations to capitalize on their potential. “We make plays as a team,” Durant emphasized. “Some nights, it’s going to be my night in the fourth. Some nights, it’s going to be Alpi’s.” The urgency to improve is palpable as fans and analysts alike await their next matchup.
The emotional fallout from this game will resonate as the Rockets regroup. With the season still in its early stages, Houston has the opportunity to learn from this heartbreaking experience as they aim for success in the competitive NBA landscape.
