Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting 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, giving the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity 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 good start."
Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated 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 identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards 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 scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
