Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
