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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the champions 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 contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the 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 opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.