Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.
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 contributed 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
