Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
