Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
