Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
