Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph
The Thunder star joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
