Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, 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 do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
