Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions started 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 left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA said 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, fortune or misfortune. 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 arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.
