Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Dramatic Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," 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, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed 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 Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
