Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
