Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man 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, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination 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—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action 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 new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
