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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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