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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination 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—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team 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.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.