Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
