Thunder Launch Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders 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 alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," 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—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work 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 title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to 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.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
