Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning points deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
