Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Scores Career-High 55 Points as OKC Thunder Win Double-Overtime Rematch

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a career-high 55 points to lead the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder to their second consecutive double-overtime victory, this time a 141-135 win over the Indiana Pacers in a rematch of last season's NBA Finals. Despite missing several key players, including Jalen Williams, Gilgeous-Alexander took on a significant offensive load and was supported by strong contributions from Ajay Mitchell, who scored a career-best 26 points off the bench, and Aaron Wiggins. The Thunder's resilience was notable as they became the first NBA team to start a season with back-to-back double overtime games, with Gilgeous-Alexander playing heavy minutes and emphasizing the importance of early-season conditioning. The Pacers, missing stars Tyrese Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard due to injuries, fought hard with Pascal Siakam and Bennedict Mathurin each recording double-doubles, but ultimately fell short. The Thunder's coach, Mike Daigneault, praised Mitchell's composure and talent, while Pacers coach Rick Carlisle stressed the need for grit and resilience in facing ongoing challenges this season. The Thunder now aim to maintain their momentum with an upcoming road game against the Atlanta Hawks.