Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.
