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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in 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 remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last 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 claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

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