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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.