Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana 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 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.