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The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," SGA said 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, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat 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.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance 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 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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