Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
