Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
