Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
