Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work 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 raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
