Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder beat the 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 claimed 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 same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
