Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
