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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

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

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

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, 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 Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.