Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.
