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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck 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 game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

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

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

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.