Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
