Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"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, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won 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 identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
