Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Dramatic Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high 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," SGA commented of their performance. "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 game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.