Thunder Begin Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.
