Former Oklahoma City Thunder star James Harden scored 41 points to lead the Houston Rockets to a 115-112 win over the Thunder on Easter Sunday at Chesapeake Arena in Oklahoma City.
Russell Westbrook had his 11th triple double of the season, with 40 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists.
The Thunder started the game on a 10-3 run, but the Rockets responded by scoring 18 straight points and never trailed after that.
They led by as many as 13 points, and led by eight at halftime, 55-47.
The Thunder rallied in the fourth quarter, tying the game at 100 on a three-pointer by Westbrook.
Harden responded with a three and made the next three Rockets baskets to build the lead back to seven at 108-101.
OKC played the foul game late and had a final chance to tie, but Westbrook missed a three pointer in the final seconds to seal the victory for the Rockets.
Anthony Morrow had 22 points off the bench for the Thunder, with six three-pointers.
Enes Kanter had another double double with 21 points and 17 rebounds, while Dion Waiters had 14, 10 coming in the second quarter.
Dwight Howard added 22 points for Houston.
The Thunder hit 14 three-pointers, but had 18 turnovers, and the Rockets had 24 more free throw attempts.
OKC falls to 42-35 on the season, and is now just a half game ahead of New Orleans for the 8th and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
The Thunder continue their three-game homestand Tuesday night at 7:00 against San Antonio.
Dylan Buckingham has postgame sound from Chesapeake Arena from the following: James Harden, Rusell Westbrook, Scott Brooks, Enes Kanter, Anthony Morrow.
