Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
