Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said 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 sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder defeated 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 claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
