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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

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

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.