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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 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 top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action 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 prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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