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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.