By Josh Cohen July 8, 2016
ORLANDO – While losing Kevin Durant in free agency can’t be ignored, the Oklahoma City Thunder completed summer league with some optimism about their young developing talent.
Semaj Christon racked up 22 points and Cameron Payne posted 15 points, six rebounds and four assists as OKC rolled past the Miami Heat, 86-72, on Friday.
As they prepare to turn the page and start a new chapter after Durant’s decision to join the Golden State Warriors, the Thunder return home with positive vibes after a 4-1 slate in Orlando.
Christon, particularly, had one of the more consistent weeks among all players this week. As Thunder summer league coach Mark Daigneault points out, Christon continues to improve and add more to his repertoire.
“I’ve always viewed him (Christon) as an NBA guy,” Daignealult said. “He really understands how to operate within his game.”
Christon played overseas last year (Consultinvest Pesaro in Italy) and the D-League before that. He learned a lot playing in Europe and he hopes this week’s performance can catapult him to the NBA this fall.
“It was great, very different,” he said about his time in Italy. “It’s more physical. A lot of pull-up jump shots and floaters, never really got all the way to the rim. I matured a lot over there.”
What also helped OKC in Friday’s win was Miami’s decision to rest a few of its key players. Justise Winslow, Josh Richardson and Briante Weber each did not play.
Victor Rudd led the Heat with 22 points, while David Walker scored 14 and Nic Moore had 12 points.
