Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.