Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. 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 payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort 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 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.