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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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