Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, 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 maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
