Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
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 first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
