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

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

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

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

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.