Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, 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 franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
