Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck 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, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
