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The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. 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 payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds 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 scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.