Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship 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 OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.
