LOS ANGELES – Brazilian international Bruno Caboclo scored a career-high 24 points as the Memphis Grizzlies dented Oklahoma City Thunder's likely playoff ranking with a 115-103 upset on Monday (Tuesday Manila time).
Caboclo, who only landed a permanent multi-year deal with Memphis last month after a frustrating few years spent trying to break into the NBA, rewarded his new employers' belief with a game-winning display.
The 6-foot-9, 23-year-old small forward from Sao Paulo also pulled down 11 rebounds and provided two assists to give the already-eliminated Grizzlies a deserved win over the higher-ranked Thunder.
The defeat leaves Oklahoma City in eighth place in the Western Conference standings with 43 wins and 31 defeats.
Caboclo's points haul was the centerpiece of a solid all-round offensive display from Memphis, who saw all five starters finish in double figures.
Tyler Dorsey had 21 points while Delon Wright and Jonas Valanciunas added 18 points apiece.
But it was a rare off night for Thunder star Russell Westbrook, who was restricted to 16 points, five rebounds and seven assists, while converting just six of 20 field goal attempts.
Instead it was left to Paul George to keep the Thunder in touch, with the small forward finishing with 30 points and 12 rebounds.