Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Thrilling Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, 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 presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
