Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
