Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.
