Ibaka pitched in with 15 points (5-8 FG, 5-6 3Pt), five rebounds and a block over 36 minutes in Friday’s 100-96 Game 3 loss to the Spurs.

The veteran forward played his usual third wheel role on offense to Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant, but was particularly proficient from long range. The five made three-pointers were a postseason high for Ibaka, and he was also a lot more effective on defense against LaMarcus Aldridge than in the first two games of the series. The seven-year pro figures to continue playing a pivotal role on both ends of the floor as the series unfolds, particularly if teammate Russell Westbrook makes good on his vow to involve other members of the offense on a more frequent basis going forward.