Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
