Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Win
The Thunder star came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.
Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.