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The Thunder's star player scored the winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance 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 positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise 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 Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.