Thunder Begin Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
