Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
