Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," 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 bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.