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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, 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 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.