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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory 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 double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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