Bulls' Wendell Carter Jr. blocks Russell Westbrook dunk

Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Rookie Wendell Carter Jr. rejected a Russell Westbrook dunk attempt during the Chicago Bulls' win against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The play occurred with about five minutes remaining in the Bulls' 114-112 victory on Friday at the United Center in Chicago. The Bulls led 103-100 when Westbrook had the ball at half court. He took some dribbles around a Paul George screen before bursting over the 3-point line.

Westbrook cruised into the paint before elevating and bringing the ball far back in his right hand. He was bringing the ball forward when Carter emerged. The Bulls big-man jumped up and swatted the ball from Westbrook's hand, denying the vicious throw down.

Westbrook finished the night with 24 points, 17 rebounds, 13 assists, four steals and 10 turnovers. Carter had six points, two rebounds, two assists and two blocks in the win. Zach LaVine led the all scorers with 25 points. Lauri Markkanen matched Westbrook's 24 points, but also had the go-ahead layup in the closing seconds for the Bulls.

The Bulls host the Boston Celtics at 8 p.m. on Saturday in Chicago. Oklahoma City hosts the Utah Jazz at 8 p.m. on Monday at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City.