Thunder rookie Josh Giddey creates NBA history double in Madison Square Garden debut
Playing under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden did not disappoint Josh Giddey as the Australian scored a new career high by scoring his third double of the season – and second in a row – in form. impression.
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Giddey’s 28 points set a new career high, beating his previous high of 24, while also adding 12 assists and 11 rebounds in a 127-123 extra-time victory. of the Thunder.
Only four players have scored a brace in their first game at The Garden, joining a roster that includes Wilt Chamberlain (Philadelphia 76ers), Magic Johnson (Los Angeles Lakers) and Chuck Person (Indiana Pacers).
– ‘𝙉𝘽𝘼 ️ (@_Talkin_NBA) February 15, 2022
Giddey became the third rookie in NBA history to score a brace on his Madison Square Garden debut, the other two being Johnson and Person.
Johnson has 19 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds, while Person still holds the top three-point double on his MSG debut with 34 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists.
Giddey is also the youngest player in NBA history to record triples in a row and the seventh rookie to ever sign up for triples in a row.
During Tuesday’s game, Giddey impressed the Knicks’ Mike Breen announced that he will be witnessing the Australian team play for the first time.
“He has a chance to be a great, great player” longtime caller said in telecast.
as you want@joshgiddey | # Thunder loud pic.twitter.com/JHU9Cz1jDp
– OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) February 15, 2022
Giddey burst into flames in the second half and finished the first half with 16 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds. He connected with 7/9 goals in the first half.
The Australian has impressed in his rookie campaign, being named Rookie of the Month at the Western Conference three months in a row, and with performances like these he will find himself the ability to compete for the title of Rookie of the Year at the end of the season.