Thunder Begin Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, 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, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
