Chimezie Metu was huge for the Kings down the stretch as they spoiled Westbrook's debut in double overtime. NBA
The Sacramento Kings recorded a 176-175 victory away against the Los Angeles Clippers in an NBA fixture played in the early hours of Saturday, February 25, 2023.
Russell Westbrook made his debut for the Clippers in a game that would not be forgotten soon against the Kings
After being traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Utah Jazz and being bought out to become a free agent Westbrook finally represented the Clippers.
The former MVP started out well dishing out dimes as the Clippers and Kings exchanged buckets in a 40-point first quarter for both teams.
The Clippers produced another 40-point quarter but were only able to lead by four points at the halftime break.
In the third quarter, Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard made difficult shots but the Clippers were unable to create much separation as the Kings were still in the game down seven points going into the fourth quarter.
The Kings capitalized on turnovers late along with a clutch shot from Malki Monk to tie the game and force overtime.
There was nothing to separate both teams in the first overtime as the Kings responded with a late run to force another extra five minutes.
Clippers forward Paul Goerge was on a minutes restriction and unable to continue as the Kings came down from four points to win the game by one point in the second overtime period.
Chimezie Metu shines for the Kings in the win against Clippers
Nigerian-American professional basketball player Chimezie Metu played an important role for the Kings in the victory against the Clippers.
The 25-year-old forward was named to the Kings' second unit by Head Coach Mike Brown.
Coming off the bench, Metu featured for 22 minutes and almost bagged a double-double in an outstanding defensive performance.
Metu contributed eight points, grabbed nine rebounds, and recorded two steals. He made all four of his shots and was a plus 12 in the Kings' net ratings.
Down the stretch with Kings center Domantas Sabonis in foul trouble, Metu was able to come in and hold it down on the defensive end.
The game between the Kings and the Clippers is arguably the most exciting game of the year and made history as the second-highest-scoring game ever.
Metu returns to action when the Kings travel to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in their next game scheduled for Monday, February 27, 2023.