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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes 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 picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.