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The Thunder's star player scored the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

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

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.

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

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

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current 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 added 23 for the road team.

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.