Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into double overtime, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets in the NBA season opener.
The reigning MVP finished with 35 points, including two clutch free throws with 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the defending champions a positive start.
Houston’s Alperen Sengun top-scored with 39 points, including a career-high five three-pointers, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Thunder. Chet Holmgren added 28 points, playing a key supporting role alongside Gilgeous-Alexander.
“Grit, determination, and defense,” said Gilgeous-Alexander.
“We know that when we do it on defense, we give ourselves a chance no matter what’s going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defense to get the win. We’re pretty rusty, but it’s a good start.”
Before tip-off, Oklahoma’s championship banner was raised at their home court, and players received championship rings commemorating their victory over the Indiana Pacers in last season’s NBA Finals—the franchise’s first title since moving from Seattle in 2008.
The Pacers will host Oklahoma on Friday, while the Rockets travel to face the Detroit Pistons the same day.
Elsewhere, Luka Doncic recorded 43 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists, but his Los Angeles Lakers fell 119-109 to the Golden State Warriors, led by Jimmy Butler’s 31 points and Stephen Curry’s 23. LeBron James missed the game while recovering from sciatica.
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