Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
