Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face 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 Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
