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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

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

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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