Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.
But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
