Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
