Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, 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 on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
