Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Grit 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, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work 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 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 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
