Thunder Launch Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 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 alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively 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 good start."
Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough 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 Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.
