Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," 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, misses, fortune 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 raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
The Thunder defeated 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 title.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.
