Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Triumph
The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
