Thunder Begin Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it 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 pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
