Pargo Sinks Thunder At Buzzer, Lifts Bobcats To 86-85 Win

In the most exciting Orlando Pro Summer League game yet, the Charlotte Bobcats surged past the Oklahoma City Thunder, with point guard Jeremy Pargo floating in a tough layup at the buzzer for an 86-85 final. Pargo posted a modest line of 7 points and 3 assists, but he made the most important shot of the game to complete the Thunder’s comeback. Small forward Gerald Henderson fueled the Bobcats’ rally, scoring 14 second-half points on 3-of-5 shooting, doing most ofhis work on the low block, where his speed and strength help him overpower other players at the position.

Charlotte also got solid production out of center Alexis Ajinca, who poured in an efficient 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting. He looks like a legitimate low-post presence, which is marvelous considering where he was at this time one year ago. Swingman P.J. Tucker provided offense off the bench, getting out in transition and finishing his chances with 10 points.

The Thunder got double-figure scoring from each of their starters, and James Harden once again led the way with 19 points. He continues to struggle with his outside shot, but his aggressive takes to the basket have produced 28 free-throw attempts in 68 minutes this week. Eric Maynor was the Thunder’s true star of the day, though. 18 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists from the second-year point guard, acquired from the Jazz last season as an incentive to absorb the unwanted contract of Matt Harpring. Maynor showed prowess in transition and in the halfcourt, particularly in creating for himself in pick-and-roll situations. He showed proficiency using his floater, but he missed one on the Thunder’s final possession, which would have given them a three-point lead.