Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.
Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles 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 without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
