Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook slipped just before halftime of Game 4 of a Western Conference semifinals series against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on Saturday.
Westbrook remained on the ground for an extended period of time and the Thunder bench cleared to check on him. After a few minutes, he was able to walk off gingerly under his own power.
The Oklahoman reported that Westbrook received treatment on his hip during halftime and that he was "fine" despite the scary scene. He returned to start the second half.
After the game, Westbrook discussed the play.
"I was trying to go out for the outlet," he said. "I stopped and slipped, did the splits. Kind of messed up my hip a little bit. It's the playoffs. Can't sit back and whine about it."
Westbrook finished with a team-high 37 points, 2 rebounds, 5 assists and 1 steal on 15-for-26 shooting in 43 minutes on Saturday. The Thunder won 103-100 to take a 3-1 series lead over the Lakers.
Westbrook was one of a number of players to slip on the court during the first half. Lakers guard Kobe Bryant and Ramon Sessions both slipped as well.
The Clippers hosted the San Antonio Spurs earlier Saturday but they use a different playing surface. No players slipped noticeably during that game.
In addition to hosting back-to-back games for the Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers, Staples Center is also hosting the NHL's Western Conference finals between the Los Angeles Kings and the Phoenix Coyotes. Staples Center is set to host the Kings on Sunday afternoon and the Clippers on Sunday evening.
TNT reported that there is ice underneath the court but that the ice is present year-round.
