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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.