Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Thrilling Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
