Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning points deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders 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 Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, 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 stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.
