Now that we have had a few weeks to get over the debacle that was game six (still mad at Klay Thompson) lets take some time to take in the past season for the Thunder. Through all of the ups and downs, the stress looking forward to KD's 'Decision', and the magical playoff run, it was one heck of a ride. To look back, here are eight of the best/defining moments from the past season.
8. Russ' Crazy Shot Against Magic
Feels like it happened about a decade ago right? Thunder would end up winning this game in double overtime in what was one of the best games of the year.
7. KD's Buzzer Beater Against the Magic
Sorry 'bout cha Victor Oladipo. Maybe it's good that you got traded to OKC, so KD and Russ will stop breaking your heart all the time.
6. Russ and Cam, NBA's best Dance Duo
The best thing to happen to OKC this season wasn't Billy D's new offense, the new orange jerseys or even KD's return. By far the best thing was the addition of Cameron Payne. Almost instantly after his arrival the Thunder were jettisoned into the stratosphere as the best dancing team in the NBA, a crown Westbrook is sure to hold onto for years to come.
5. When Someone Got in Russ' Way
The only thing better than watching Westbrook and Cam practice for Dancing With the Stars is watching what happens when someone tries to get in his way.
4. Struck by Tragedy
About halfway through the season, the Thunder went through a time full of more trials and hardship then most teams have seen in their entire existence. In a span of a couple weeks, owner for the Thunder Aubrey McClendon passed away in a car wreck (he went to nearly every game and was incredibly involved), Dion Waiters lost his brother in a robbery gone wrong, and assistant coach Monty Williams' wife Ingrid died in a car wreck. In what was one of the most powerful messages I've ever witnessed, Monty delivered the eulogy at his wife's funeral. That speech helped rally and bring not only the team, but the city, together.
3. The Moment The Season Turned Around
While nothing makes up for what they went through, the Thunder still had three months left of basketball to play. "14 blown leads, too selfish, not enough discipline..." Those were phrases that defined OKC's tumultuous season going into Game 2 against San Antonio and, coming off a 32 point defeat, it all seemed fitting. But little did everyone know that game would be the fulcrum that would turn everything around and set us up for a deep playoff run.
2. The Rise Of The 'Stache Bros
The least likely of friendships. Two guys, one is from Turkey, the other, New Zealand. Both competing for play time and yet here they are, burst on the scene as the funniest pair in the NBA. We can only hope the moustaches make it back for next season.
1. The Kick Heard 'Round The World
The look on Adam's face says it all. In what was seemingly the only thing covered on ESPN for two days, the decision on whether or not to suspend Green for his shot to Adam's kiwis was certainly a controversial one. Luckily, Adams and his jewels were able to make a full recovery.
While the Thunder weren't able to get past the Warriors and secure their first championship, the past season wasn't a failure. It what was the most chaotic season in the franchise's history, there were many ups and downs. Through it all, however, the Thunder exceeded expectations and were one game short of dethroning the champions. All there is left to do now is to get hype for next season! Which is sure to be one for the books.