Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning 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 top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles 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 missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.
