Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Dramatic Overtime Win

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.