Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.
