Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Victory
The Thunder star joined the Thunder in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," 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—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
