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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.

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

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

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

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

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

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

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.