Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC 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 Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
