Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions 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 the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored 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 the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled 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 maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort 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 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
