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NBA says Russell Westbrook was fouled before game-sealing layup

In its Last Two Minute Report, the NBA said that Russell Westbrook was fouled by Kawhi Leonard before his game-sealing and-one layup in Tuesday’s Game 5 win.
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In its Last Two Minute Report, the NBA said that Russell Westbrook was fouled by Kawhi Leonard before his game-sealing and-one layup in Tuesday’s Game 5 win.

With Oklahoma City leading 92–91 and nine seconds remaining, Westbrook caught an inbounds pass and within seconds was wrapped around the waist by Leonard, who was attempting to commit an intentional foul.

Referees did not blow the whistle, and Westbrook continued his dribble, going to the basket and scoring an and-one layup over LaMarcus Aldridge to give the Thunder an eventual four-point lead and seal the game. 

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The league said Leonard should have been granted the take foul, but that the foul called on Aldridge was correct. 

“[Leonard] pretty obviously fouled him,” Gregg Popovich said after the game. “But every call doesn’t get called.”

The Thunder take a 3–2 series lead with Game 6 in Oklahoma City. Westbrook finished with 35 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists. Leonard had 26 points, six rebounds, four assists and five steals to pace the Spurs.

– Kenny Ducey