Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Dramatic Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved 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 Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to 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 recovers from sciatica.