Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded 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 moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient 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 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.