Rockets complete the comeback after Durant’s buzzer beater waved off
The regular season debut of dynamic duo James Harden and Chris Paul ended in victory as the Houston Rockets secured an improbable 122-121 come from behind victory over the Golden State Warriors.
After controlling the game from the opening tip, the Warriors comfortably cruised to the lead as they unleashed a three point barrage on the Rockets. Golden State become too comfortable and slowly Houston began to scratch and claw back into the game.
Nearing the closing seconds in the final frame of action, P.J Tucker became the unlikely hero for the Rockets in their comeback bid.
With 44 seconds left on the clock, Tucker muscled his way to the hole and took a foul to put himself at the line. Tucker hit both of his free throw attempts and Houston regained the lead for the first time since they scored the contest’s first basket.
On the other end of the floor, Steph Curry lost his defender on a quick misdirection after the catch and bricked a wide open three off the back of the rim. The ball fell back to the hardwood and an all out free-for-all ensued.
Emerging from the chaotic scramble was none other than Finals MVP Kevin Durant. Having miraculously secured the rebound, KD took a single dribble and quickly squared himself up for the shot as time expired.
The shot left his hand in a beautiful arch towards the basket and fell through the cylinder as the buzzer penetrated the sound of the roaring crowd. Durant then put on his best mean mug and puffed out his chest while teammates joined their last second savior for an on court celebration.
However, upon a second look the call was overturned by the referees and Durant was left astonished to hang his head in disappointment. Oracle Arena fell quiet and the Rockets cleared the bench to celebrate their lucky break.
Although the Warriors started their season on the wrong end of the win column, they’re still the clear favorites to take home the hardware at the end of the season.
It’s a lengthy season in the NBA and Rockets shouldn’t forget that Golden State never ceases to learn from a loss. If Houston becomes complacent with their win over the defending champs, they shouldn’t be surprised when the Warriors come out and walk all over them in their next matchup.
