Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
