Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering 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 a back issue.
