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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points deep into 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 poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the 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 won the 1979 crown.

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

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

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.