Thunder Begin Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers 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 together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. 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 title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous 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.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
