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OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Playing with heavy hearts a night after Thunder assistant and former Pelicans coach Monty Williams' wife died, Russell Westbrook led Oklahoma to a 121-95 victory over New Orleans on Thursday.
Ingrid Williams was involved in a car crash Tuesday night in Oklahoma City and died Wednesday. A moment of silence was observed for her before the game. Monty Williams coached the Pelicans last season before coming to Oklahoma City to help new coach Billy Donovan.
Westbrook had 23 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds. Kevin Durant scored 23 points, and Serge Ibaka added 18 for the Thunder. They have won 14 of 16 heading into the All-Star break.
Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday each scored 23 points for the Pelicans.
Oklahoma City joined Golden State and San Antonio as the only teams with at least 40 wins.
The Thunder led 62-53 at halftime behind 18 points from Westbrook and 17 from Durant.
Westbrook got his 10th assist on Ibaka's 3-pointer that gave the Thunder a 79-65 lead. He had his ninth rebound with just under 3 minutes to go in the third quarter before heading to the bench for his usual rest and the Thunder ahead 86-68. Oklahoma City led 95-74 at the end of the third quarter.
Oklahoma City's backups expanded the lead early in the fourth quarter, and Westbrook didn't return.
TIP-INS
Pelicans: Shot 53.5 percent from the field in the first half, but just 43.2 percent for the game. ... Were outrebounded 50-31 ... Committed just nine turnovers. ... Norris Cole scored 15 points.
Thunder: Shot 52.3 percent from the field. ... Thunder G Andre Roberson remained out with a right knee sprain. ... Anthony Morrow scored 10 points. ... Enes Kanter finished with 11 points and 12 rebounds.
UP NEXT
Pelicans play at 76ers on Feb. 19.
Thunder host Pacers on Feb. 19.
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