Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
