Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing 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 Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.
