Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort 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 Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
