Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Triumph
The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
