OKLAHOMA CITY, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- Russell Westbrook scored five points in a late 11-0 run Wednesday that lifted Oklahoma City to a 106-95 win over Chicago.
The Thunder made 38 free throws to just 13 for the Bulls in the season opener for both teams.
Kevin Durant, after leading the United States to the world championship during the off-season, scored 30 points and Westbrook added 28 for the Thunder. They are coming off a 50-victory season and a first-round playoff loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The score was tied heading into the final period and Durant gave Oklahoma City the lead for good with 6:46 to play by making two free throws.
Oklahoma City's lead, however, was just two points with 3:33 remaining when the Thunder embarked on its 11-point run. They built a 104-91 advantage with 1:30 to play.
Chicago's loss came in the NBA head coaching debut of Tom Thibodeau. He replaced Vinny Del Negro after Chicago was ousted in the first round of the playoffs by Cleveland.
Derrick Rose led the Bulls with 28 points, but needed 31 shots to score them.
