UPDATE: In a thrilling contest, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped a staggering 55 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder narrowly defeated the Indiana Pacers 141-135 in double overtime on October 26, 2023. This marks the first time in NBA history that a team has opened the season with back-to-back double-overtime games.
The Thunder, fresh off their victory against the Houston Rockets on opening night, faced significant challenges, missing key players Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, Isaiah Joe, and Alex Caruso. Despite these setbacks, second-year guard Ajay Mitchell stepped up with a career-high 26 points, showcasing the depth and resilience of the team.
Gilgeous-Alexander, who played an exhausting 45 minutes, emphasized the importance of starting the season strong. “The beginning of the season is just as important as the end of the season,” he stated. “We don’t want to take any opportunities for granted.” His performance not only set a personal record but also solidified his role as a clutch player for the Thunder.
“Different guys stepping up. This team never makes excuses. It’s always ready for their moment,” said Gilgeous-Alexander after the game.
Despite the loss, the Pacers fought valiantly, pushing the defending champions to their limits. Star player Tyrese Haliburton remains sidelined for the season, compounding their struggles. The team faced additional challenges when Andrew Nembhard left the game with a shoulder injury, and Aaron Nesmith fouled out in the fourth quarter. Head Coach Rick Carlisle expressed concern over Nembhard’s condition, suggesting it could lead to significant challenges ahead.
Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 32 points and 15 rebounds, while Bennedict Mathurin contributed 36 points and 11 rebounds. Carlisle praised his team’s grit, stating, “There are going to be a lot of challenges. We’ve just got to be able to take on these challenges on a long-term basis.”
Looking ahead, both teams will have to address their injuries and maintain momentum as the season progresses. The Thunder will aim to build on their success, while the Pacers will need to regroup and strategize for their upcoming matches.
This electrifying game not only thrilled fans but also set the tone for a competitive season ahead. Both teams demonstrated resilience and determination, making this rematch a captivating encounter in the early stages of the NBA season.
