Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
