Thunder Launch Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory 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 hit 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 defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
