It seems incredible, but the "Thunder Four Youngsters" are still on their rookie contracts; it's hard for such a talent-laden team not to become hugely popular.
After the opening ceremony, the starting lineups were announced:
Grizzlies: Conley, Tony Allen, Hansen, Randolph, Little Gasol
Thunders: Westbrook, Seferosa, Durant, Ibaka, Perkins
Little Gasol won the tip-off for the Grizzlies, and the much-anticipated first round G1 officially began.
The strategy of the Grizzlies had changed since the beginning of the season; although Randolph was still posting up down low, the feeder had switched back from Hansen to Conley.
The main purpose of this adjustment was to allow Hansen to initiate plays on the weak side to draw attention.
While Hansen and Little Gasol were moving, they quickly realized that Thunders were heavily guarding Hansen.
When Hansen played for the Cavaliers last season, Brooks's performance had left a deep impression on him.
