Thunder Launch Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man 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, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
