Oklahoma Cty, led by Valentine, got the critical win in today's matchup against New Orleans. After the game, the Oklahoma Cty star was surrounded by would-be interviewers, a not uncommon sight recently as he has moved into a leading role on his team. After taking a few questions, he met his long-time friend, New Orleans's Davis, who had played his heart out during the game only to come up short. "It's always tough when we play, he said. I always like to see him do well, and vice versa. But we can't both come out winners as long as we're on different teams." Rumors continue to circulate about the two friends trying to find their way onto the same team.

Oklahoma Cty was led by Valentine (19 points, 8 boards, 3 assists, a steal, 2 blocks), Plungis (23 points, 8 boards, 0 assists, 3 blocks), Pollard (13 points, 12 boards, 4 assists, a steal, a block). New Orleans was led by Davis (6 points, 5 boards, 15 assists, 5 steals), Phelan (20 points, 10 boards, 3 assists, a steal, 2 blocks), Jaramillo (19 points, 9 boards, 2 assists, a steal, 2 blocks).

Oklahoma Cty improve to 7-5 after today's win. They stay at #2 in the Northwest and advance to #5 overall in the Western Conference. New Orleans stand at 8-5 and 5-3 at home. They stay at #2 in the Southwest and remain at #4 overall in the Western Conference.

box score Oklahoma Cty roster New Orleans roster