Thunder Begin Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
