Thunder Begin Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
