Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Thrilling Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.