Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.