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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

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

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. 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, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.