Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role 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 opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
