Memphis Grizzlies set to make first appearance at the Western Conference Finals.
Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant revealed he is proud of his team-mates despite falling in the Western Conference semi-finals to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Their 88-84 loss on Wednesday night ensured they suffered a 4-1 series loss and ended their bid for an immediate return to the NBA Finals.
It was a tough night for the 24-year-old as the Grizzlies defence continued to smother him and prevent him from having the game he would have wished for in front of a hopeful home crowd.
Durant also commented on the absence of Russell Westbrook, who picked up an injury in Game 2 against the Houston Rockets in the first round and missed the rest of the post season campaign.
However, he remains proud of the players that stepped in and while the disappointment of defeat hurts for now, he believes the experience will benefit them for the future.
“We had a really good season, it was a joy playing with these guys and for this great city. I gave all I had for my team and I left it all out there on the floor.
“We were shocked that he [Westbrook] got hurt, because Russell is like the most durable guy ever. But he’s the main guy who told us to keep our heads up and don’t feel sorry for ourselves, just go out there and play,” he told reporters.
Considering his immense talent, Durant’s absence will be a loss for the remainder of the post season, but the Grizzlies will be delighted to have advanced and will now await the winner of the series between the San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors.
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