Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled 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 maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
