SGA: 35 points and game-winning free throws seal Thunder victory over Rockets

In an encounter full of emotions and with a heart-stopping finish, the Oklahoma City Thunder faced the Houston Rockets in a game that marked the beginning of the season. The duel, which extended to two overtimes, was loaded with symbolism and key moments. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the talented Thunder guard, remained focused on finding the winning basket, paying no attention to the significance of having Kevin Durant, his former teammate, defending him in the decisive moments.

I’m just trying to find a shot that I feel comfortable with in those moments. My brain is so locked into the moment that I don’t even realize those things.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Despite not getting a clean shot, Gilgeous-Alexander drew a foul from Durant, making both free throws with 2.3 seconds left, giving the Rockets the win with a final score of 125-124.

The game also marked Durant’s return to Oklahoma City, where his departure is still a sensitive issue for fans. The pre-game ceremony, which celebrated last season’s championship, was described by Gilgeous-Alexander as “surreal.” The team received their championship rings, with over 800 diamonds and custom gems, before raising the banner. It felt like I was going up for 10 minutes. It was an incredible moment. I will remember it for the rest of my life. Gilgeous-Alexander struggled to find his rhythm against the Rockets’ defense, which focused on preventing the ball from reaching his hands. In the first half, he only scored five points, less than any total from last season. Chet Holmgren, for his part, kept the Thunder in the game with 18 points in the first half. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault commented on Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance.

He just stays in the game. It wasn’t a perfect night for him, but he stays in it. He understands the nature of 48 minutes. He understands the nature of 82 games. It’s not always going to be perfect. And tonight wasn’t perfect for us collectively. And the guys just played the next play, we never lost focus or determination.

Mark Daigneault

It was in the final quarter when Gilgeous-Alexander found his rhythm, scoring 12 points and tying the score with a shot over Amen Thompson. In the two overtimes, he added 12 more points.

As the game went on, naturally the coverages got a little more lax. I was able to get to the zone and my spots a little bit.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Alex Caruso highlighted Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to stay competitive.

You can’t stop great players for the whole game. You can do a job for a while. I think he still ended up with 35, and he had a slow night. That’s him.

Alex Caruso

According to data, Gilgeous-Alexander joined Stephen Curry and Shaquille O’Neal as the only players to record at least 35 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in an opening game. In addition, he had two blocks and two steals.

I need to be better. We need to be better than what we just did. We’re going to be a better team in a few months, but I firmly believe this team will use tonight as a learning experience. … It was ugly tonight, but I’d rather it be ugly in a win than in a loss, for sure.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander