Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
