Very few NBA games are won in the first quarter.  Even fewer are won against the Boston Celtics.

But for a young franchise with a developing roster, the first twelve minutes of Wednesday night's matchup with the defending NBA Champions were easily the most productive of the season.

The Thunder moved without the basketball, set good screens, passed the ball well and forced the Celtics into two shot clock violations.  The first quarter box score was as stunning as the 29-21 lead on the scoreboard--50 percent shooting, seven assists and no turnovers.

Perhaps Oklahoma City shocked itself. The Thunder couldn't muster 29 points in the second and third quarters combined.

Playing the second half of a back-to-back, the Celts simply elevated their defensive intensity to a level more reminiscent of the style that won them an NBA Title in June.

In particular, 6'5'' guard Ray Allen managed to take 6'9'' Kevin Durant completely out of the game.  Despite leading the Thunder with 17 points in more than 32 minutes, there were long stretches where you might not have noticed Durant was even on the floor. 

He and the rest of Loud City began to settle for mid-to-long-range jumpers.  Twice during the second half, Oklahoma City turned it over simply trying to make an entry pass to the former Longhorn.  In fact, the Thunder nearly had as many turnovers as points in the third quarter (8 versus 11). 

Sometimes you get jumpshots because the other team wants you to get jumpshots.  This was one of those instances. 

When asked about Durant's disappearing act, head coach PJ Carlesimo rightly gave "80 percent of the credit" to Boston's defense and deflected the blame to the team's overall lack of physicality.  But the reigning rookie of the year continues to be of primary concern. 

So what did the Thunder learn from the winningest, most decorated franchise in NBA history?  Hopefully, a lesson on how to physically control a game at the defensive end.  But realistically, OKC doesn't have the personnel to defend like the Celtics on a nightly basis. 

More practically, the Thunder has to expect to face similar defensive efforts going forward.  Teams will target Durant.  Opponents will force this team to win from the perimeter. 

As Carlesimo put it, his team has to fight through rather than comply.  The Thunder must insist on getting to the rim, offensive rebound, and cherish possessions. 

The way it did in the first quarter.