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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 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 titleholders a positive start.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

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

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

The Thunder defeated 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 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 the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.