Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the winning points deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
