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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

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

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

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards 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 defeat against the Warriors.

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

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