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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.