Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "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 enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.
