Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets 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 new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
