Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
