Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. 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 raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
