Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
