Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win
The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
