Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance 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 still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won 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 same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
