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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory 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 titleholders a winning beginning.

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 added 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," 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 defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

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

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.